Faith Community Tree Grants

McLean Trees Foundation (MTF) is accepting applications for one-time grants of up to three (3) native trees to eligible faith community applicants, to be planted on faith community-owned property in McLean, Virginia. MTF offers a variety of native trees from which the applicant may choose, subject to availability. MTF will assist successful applicants to plant the selected trees, providing mulch and water, as needed, at the time of planting.

The faith community may also consider the planting of additional trees on its property through MTF’s Sponsored Tree Program or Tree Champions Program.

Eligibility

Applicants must be a not-for-profit, religious organization, regardless of faith, that has been specifically recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as being exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, with commonly owned open space located within the McLean Area (defined as the area bounded by the Potomac River, the Arlington County line, Falls Church City line, Route 7, the Dulles Access Road to Difficult Run, and along Difficult Run to the Potomac).

The MTF Board will review all applications by eligible organizations and may approve each application at its sole discretion.

Requirements

Each eligible applicant must:

1. Fully complete the application;

2. Meet with an MTF volunteer to review the proposed planting site and to discuss the program;

3. Notify MTF of any irrigation or septic system or other obstruction on the property;

4. Contact Virginia811 to mark utility lines prior to planting;

5. Obtain all necessary permissions to plant trees on the property (e.g., community board or other governance entity);

6. Grant permission for MTF volunteers to assist with the tree plantings;

7. Maintain the trees using MTF’s tree care instructions provided at time of planting;

8. Allow MTF volunteers to inspect the trees during the six months after the date of planting to monitor tree health and care, upon reasonable advance notice; and

9. Agree to release MTF from any and all liability for any damages or injury that may be associated with the trees or their planting and care.

Timeline

Applications for fall planting (October-November timeframe) must be submitted by 5:00 PM on August 31st. MTF will conduct an initial site visit to determine whether the property and desired planting location is suitable for the preferred trees and to advise on possible alternative locations. Decisions regarding the grant approvals will be issued on a rolling basis.

Faith Community Tree Grant Application Form

Submit the form below to apply for a Faith Community Tree Grant with MTF. An MTF advisor will be in touch with you shortly!