Tree Campus Higher Education Program: DC Grant

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: DC Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: National Arbor Day Foundation
Amount: Unspecified amount in in-kind support
Last Updated: November 13, 2025

Summary

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to cultivate community forests while promoting environmental stewardship. By meeting five essential standards, campuses can achieve recognition for their efforts in tree care, community engagement, and sustainability. This program not only beautifies educational spaces but also enhances mental health and reduces energy consumption, ultimately fostering a healthier planet for future generations.

Overview

NOTE: If the deadline to apply for your state has passed, please reach out to your state coordinator for a deadline extension The Arbor Day Foundation We plant trees because people need trees. Our health and the health of our planet are interconnected, and the simple act of planting trees benefits both. The Arbor Day Foundation works to connect opportunities, people, and organizations to plant trees and forests to help solve some of the most critical issues facing our planet. Tree Campus Higher Education Program No matter where you’re from, trees and green space are an integral part of the college experience. They make campuses more livable, healthy, and beautiful, benefiting students and the environment as a whole. Tree Campus Higher Education was founded to foster that tradition of excellence. The program provides a simple framework for colleges and universities to grow their community forests, achieve national recognition, and create a campus their students and staff are proud of. Why should my school participate? A commitment to trees can significantly reduce the amount of energy your campus, and community, needs to generate.Planting and maintaining trees absorbs carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, mitigating the effects of climate change.Green space provides important mental health benefits to students, faculty, and staff, as well as encourages physical activity.Involving students in tree-related service-learning projects helps educate the next generation about the importance of caring for the environment. Recognition also builds pride among your campus and the wider community. We make it easy for you to share your designation, sending flags, press releases, logos and graphics, and other materials after your acceptance.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Your college or university campus can receive annual Tree Campus Higher Education recognition by meeting five overarching standards  (additional details here).A Campus Tree Advisory CommitteeA Campus Tree Care PlanCampus Tree Program with Dedicated Annual ExpendituresArbor Day observanceService Learning Project