Urban forestry: school greening.

Assembly Member Garcia's urban forestry legislation expands California's Urban Forestry Act to incorporate school greening initiatives and enhance tree canopy coverage in urban areas. The bill adds school grounds improvement as an authorized use of urban forestry funds, requiring tree-shaded, natural spaces that reduce ambient temperatures and support student wellbeing.

The legislation directs the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to develop a statewide strategic plan targeting a 10-percent increase in urban tree canopy by 2035, with priority given to disadvantaged and low-income communities. The department must submit this plan to the Legislature by June 30, 2026. The plan will establish regional canopy targets, outline maintenance strategies, and address challenges like climate change and limited water resources.

The bill modifies the department's grant-making authority to include school greening projects that optimize tree coverage and nature-based learning environments. It permits advance payments up to 25 percent for nonprofit organizations serving disadvantaged communities and authorizes negotiated indirect cost agreements for state and federal funding. Technical assistance provisions now encompass guidance on creating tree-shaded school grounds and using urban forests to promote community climate resilience.