Brookdale Community College Awarded $243,983 Environmental Grant for Tree Planting Initiative

Brookdale Community College was awarded a $243,983 Trees for Schools grant, a joint initiative of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Sustainable Jersey, and The College of New Jersey (TCNJ).

Brookdale is one of 40 public schools, colleges, and universities across New Jersey selected to receive a share of nearly $4.5 million in grant funding to support tree planting projects that promote climate resiliency, enhance campus aesthetics, and foster environmental education. These grants are part of the second round of funding through the program; the first round of grants were awarded in 2023 and resulted in the planting of nearly 3,000 trees at 33 school campuses.

“This investment will not only beautify our campus but also contribute to a healthier environment for our students, staff, and the greater Monmouth County community,” said David M. Stout, Ph.D., president of Brookdale Community College. “We’re proud to be part of a statewide effort to reduce our carbon footprint and provide natural spaces that offer shade and learning opportunities for years to come.”

The Trees for Schools grant will support the planting of trees across Brookdale’s Lincroft and Freehold campuses, helping to mitigate the urban heat-island effect, increase canopy coverage, and reduce stormwater runoff. The program also includes planning support, site preparation, watering and maintenance for three years, and participation in state-led workshops on environmental sustainability.

Funded through New Jersey’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), this program underscores Brookdale’s commitment to sustainability and complements the College’s ongoing environmental stewardship efforts—from green infrastructure projects to campus recycling programs and academic offerings in Environmental Science.

“The planting of trees in urban areas is an incredible tool in our work to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette said. “Expanding tree canopies at school campuses will make it easier for students, staff and residents to find shade on hot days while providing numerous environmental benefits. My DEP colleagues and I are proud to support this work to promote the importance of trees in fighting climate change.”

“The Trees for Schools grants make local sustainability real, practical, and achievable,” said Randall Solomon, director of Sustainable Jersey. “Congratulations to the schools, colleges, and universities awarded a grant. They are stepping up, taking advantage of resources, and showing that meaningful climate action isn’t an abstract idea. It’s happening now, in communities across New Jersey. We look forward to working with these schools to expand their tree canopy and provide students with rich educational opportunities and a vital connection to nature.”

Brookdale’s tree planting is expected to begin in Spring 2026, alongside similar efforts across the state. In total, over 4,500 trees will be planted through this second round of grant funding. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/TreesforSchools.

About Sustainable Jersey

Sustainable Jersey is a non-profit organization that provides tools, training and financial incentives to support communities and schools as they pursue sustainability programs. The organization operates a sustainability certification program to recognize those that have documented meeting rigorous standards. The program is managed by the Sustainability Institute at TCNJ. See Sustainable Jersey and Sustainable Jersey for Schools to learn more.