CHICAGO — A major environmental restoration effort is underway in suburban Warrenville, where city officials have secured a $19,000 grant to replace trees lost to the destructive Emerald Ash Borer. The funding will help rebuild the local canopy and improve stormwater management in public green spaces.
Why Was the Grant Needed?
The tree loss was caused by the invasive pest known as the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) — a beetle that has wiped out tens of thousands of ash trees across Illinois over the last decade. Warrenville, like many other suburbs, had to cut down infected ash trees from parkways and public land.
This sudden tree loss impacted not only the aesthetics of the neighborhood but also air quality, stormwater absorption, and the health of the urban ecosystem.
Where Is the Funding Coming From?
The $19,000 grant was provided by:
- The Urban and Community Forestry Programs of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)
- The USDA Forest Service – Eastern Region
- Administered locally through The Morton Arboretum’s Chicago Region Trees Initiative (CRTI)
The grant helps Warrenville continue replanting trees in 2025, building on earlier work done in 2024. According to CRTI, as of May 29, 2025, the city had already planted over 280 new saplings.
Benefits of the New Tree Plantings
City officials say the replanting program will:
- Replace trees lost to EAB
- Introduce a diverse mix of native tree species
- Improve air quality and reduce urban heat
- Manage stormwater runoff more effectively
- Support local ecosystems and pollinators
Warrenville’s tree preservation ordinance is also being updated to protect the new trees and encourage responsible planting practices.
Official Statement from CRTI
In a press release, Melissa Custic, Interim Director of the Chicago Region Trees Initiative, said:
“Emerald ash borer prevention and mitigation will help strengthen the health of our urban forests. Tree stormwater management to improve air quality, trees benefit us all. Projects like this are imperative to support urban forests.”
What’s Next for Warrenville?
The city will use the funds to continue planting throughout 2025, focusing on key residential streets and public right-of-ways. Residents may be invited to assist with watering and monitoring the new saplings during the first two years — a critical phase for establishing strong root systems.
Has your neighborhood lost trees to Emerald Ash Borer damage? Do you support taxpayer-funded replanting programs to rebuild local greenery?
Comment below and let us know how your community is responding to urban forest loss.
Stay connected with ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for more updates on sustainability, local environment wins, and suburban transformation stories.
Sources:
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources
- USDA Forest Service – Urban & Community Forestry
- The Morton Arboretum – CRTI Program
