The Alabama Power Foundation, in partnership with the Alabama Urban Forestry Association (AUFA), is accepting applications for the 2006 Community Forestry Project.

Over the past seven years, more than $370,000 has been distributed in tree grants to nearly 400 cities, counties, schools and community groups. The grants have been used to buy thousands of trees for planting in community parks, along roadways and on school grounds, among other sites.

The Community Forestry Project is open to local governments, nonprofit groups and public and private schools, colleges and universities. Grants of up to $2,000 are awarded. Applications must be postmarked by Aug. 31, 2006. Winners will be notified no later than Nov. 3, 2006.

“These tree grants encourage citizens to participate in their communities, but more importantly, they help improve the environment,” said Bill Johnson, Alabama Power Foundation president.

"Many communities are taking a more active role in the support and care of the trees in their areas," said Amanda Smith, president of the Alabama Urban Forestry Association.  "We are proud to be a part of a program that allows these communities to further develop their urban forests and reap the economic and environmental benefits trees provide in towns and cities across the state."

For more information about the grant program, or to obtain an application by mail, please call the Alabama Power Foundation at (205) 257-2508. Information and applications are also available online at www.alabamapowerfoundation.com.  For more information about AUFA, log on to www.aufa.com.