IID Opens 2026 Green Space Grants to Fund Tree Planting and Cooling Projects Across Coachella Valley

Applications are now open for a major grant opportunity from the Imperial Irrigation District aimed at cooling neighborhoods and expanding green space across the region.

The 2026 Public Green Space Grant Program is part of IID’s Tree for All initiative, which focuses on planting trees and improving community landscapes to help reduce urban heat and promote environmental benefits.

A total of $576,000 is available this year, with individual grants of up to $35,000. Cities, counties, nonprofits, and community organizations are all eligible to apply.

The program supports projects that plant trees and create greener spaces designed to lower temperatures, conserve energy, and improve overall quality of life for residents. Officials say increasing tree coverage can help combat the heat island effect that often impacts desert communities.

Last year, the program funded 24 projects across Imperial County and the Coachella Valley, resulting in the planting of approximately 1,300 trees throughout the region.

IID encourages organizations interested in launching new planting projects or expanding existing green spaces to apply before the deadline.

Applications are open now and must be submitted by March 24 through the Imperial Irrigation District website.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.