This program is administered by the Department of Agricultural, Conservation and Forestry. The Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program is a national initiative designed to strengthen the connections between people and their environment. The USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program was authorized by the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 (PL95-313) and revised by the 1990 Farm Bill (PL101-624) to promote natural resource management in populated areas and improve quality of life. Projects proposed under this grant program must effectively contribute toward the following Project Canopy goals and USDA Forest Service national goals, including increasing the number of managed community forests, increase public awareness of the forest, create and maintain partnerships, and promote resource management. USFS goals include sustain forests and grasslands, mitigate wildfire risk, conserve open space and deliver public benefits among others. Grants can not exceed $8,000 and the applicant must form partnerships.