Lake Charles, Louisiana - The United States Department of Agriculture's Community Forestry Grant Program has awarded the City of Lake Charles a generous grant totaling $866,078. This federal program, which has been made possible through funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, aims to enhance public health and well-being by reducing extreme heat and improving access to natural environments. The grant will enable the City of Lake Charles to implement measures that will mitigate the effects of high temperatures and promote the benefits of being outdoors. By investing in community forestry, the city will provide its residents with a healthier and more sustainable environment, resulting in a better quality of life for all.

“We are proud to be one of four successful applicants in the State of Louisiana,” said Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter. “Our #ReTreeLC initiative, launched in December 2021 to help restore the City’s depleted tree canopy post-storms, has been wildly successful with more than 3,000 trees planted in public spaces and distributed through public tree giveaways. This grant will assist us in enhancing the aesthetics and the overall betterment of our community through tree plantings at multiple locations throughout the City.”