Tree for Tree Cost Share Program

The Tree for Tree Cost Share program is a state-administered financial assistance initiative designed to support reforestation efforts on private lands in Minnesota. It is administered through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and funded by Enbridge as part of regulatory requirements tied to the Line 3 pipeline construction. The program exists to replace trees removed during pipeline development and to restore forest ecosystems across affected regions. By encouraging private landowners to participate in reforestation, the program contributes to long-term environmental goals including improved water quality, enhanced wildlife habitat, and a sustainable forest products economy. The primary purpose of the program is to incentivize landowners to plant trees on suitable open land and reestablish forest cover in designated counties impacted by infrastructure development. The program supports a range of forestry stewardship objectives, including reforestation, habitat enhancement, and ecosystem restoration. Funding is specifically targeted toward tree planting-related activities and does not extend to general landscaping or residential yard projects. Eligible activities include the purchase and planting of seedlings, site preparation necessary for planting, and protective measures to ensure tree survival and growth. Funding is provided through a cost-share structure in which approved applicants may receive reimbursement for up to 75 percent of eligible tree planting expenses. In addition to this reimbursement, the program offers an incentive payment of 500 dollars per acre planted, further encouraging participation and scaling of reforestation efforts. This structure reduces financial barriers for landowners while aligning incentives with environmental outcomes. There is no explicit total program funding or award ceiling stated, but funding is limited and distributed on a rolling basis until exhausted. Eligibility is restricted to private landowners with property located within one of fifteen specific Minnesota counties affected by the Line 3 pipeline construction. These counties include Aitkin, Beltrami, Carlton, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Kittson, Marshall, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, St. Louis, and Wadena. Projects must meet a minimum size requirement of 10 acres and must involve planting trees on open land capable of supporting forest growth. This ensures that funded activities align with the program’s reforestation objectives and ecological viability standards. The application process is informal and begins with outreach to a Department of Natural Resources stewardship forester. Interested landowners are encouraged to consult early in the planning process to ensure project eligibility and proper design. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis beginning in July 2025 and continue until available funding is fully allocated. There are no formal pre-application requirements such as letters of intent, but early engagement with program staff is strongly recommended to facilitate approval and maximize funding opportunities. Evaluation of applications is based on eligibility criteria, project feasibility, alignment with program goals, and geographic qualification. While specific scoring criteria are not publicly detailed, the emphasis is on restoring forest cover in impacted areas and ensuring proper stewardship practices. Approved projects proceed through planning and implementation phases with oversight from DNR foresters. For additional information or assistance, applicants can contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources via phone or email, ensuring access to guidance throughout the process.

Consult early with a stewardship forester to ensure eligibility and maximize funding chances