Bergenfield Public School District was awarded a $12,346 Trees for Schools grant to fund the costs associated with the purchase and planting of trees. This includes planning, site preparation, watering, monitoring, and related expenses over a three-year period.

“We are thrilled to be receiving this grant that will provide important hands-on environmental lessons for our students,” said Superintendent of Schools, Christopher Tully, Ed.D.

The Trees for Schools program is a joint effort of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Sustainable Jersey, and The College of New Jersey. Funded by Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) auction proceeds, the Trees for Schools grant program will fund the planting of more than 3,000 trees across the state.

“These grants are an important step to help mitigate the impact of climate change and are an investment in healthier schools and communities,” DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette said. “Trees store carbon and reduce greenhouse gases and energy use, thereby mitigating the impacts of climate change and strengthening the resilience of our communities. Equally important, the planting of these trees will inspire our young people to become tomorrow’s leaders in the fight against climate change.”

“Congratulations to the schools, colleges and universities that received a Trees for Schools grant. Planting and caring for trees help our students learn about ecosystems and the valuable role trees play,” said Randall Solomon, director of Sustainable Jersey. “We look forward to working with the grant recipients to expand their campus tree canopy while allowing students this important connection.”

The Trees for Schools grant recipients will now work with the project team to develop their tree project design, and will participate in tree-planting workshops. The tree plantings are scheduled for spring 2024. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/TreesforSchools.