Canberrans can now join a volunteer group and apply for grants to grow more trees in the city’s parks.

“The ACT Government is undertaking one of the largest tree plantings in our city’s history – with 54,000 new trees to be planted by 2024,” said Chris Steel, ACT Minister for Transport and City Services.

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“Whilst Government planting has been focused on more complex plantings on street verges, we are supporting the volunteer groups who are keen to plant and care for trees in our urban parks.

“This new round of the Adopt-a-park program will see more communities benefit from trees that cool our neighbourhoods and help grow our urban canopy to 30 per cent cover.”

Grants are available for projects that strengthen volunteer groups’ ability to help reach the government’s canopy target in Canberra’s urban parks, including initiatives for planting, minor tree maintenance, and associated activities.

The government is particularly interested in projects in communities with low canopy cover and proposals that promote long term landscape resilience.

Up to $20,000 is available per application.

“Now is a great time to consider joining an existing volunteer group that cares for our parks and help contribute to the character and liveability of your local park and suburb,’’ Mr Steel said.

Applications must be received by 5pm on Friday 6 May. Find out how to apply at: https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/public-land/maintenance/volunteering.

To find an active volunteer group, visit:  https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/public-land/maintenance/volunteering.