As the urbanization of the human population increases, destruction of green spaces in urban areas is increasing at an alarming rate. Urban areas with less tree coverage, are often communities of color and tend to have higher levels of air pollution, which is linked to increased rates respiratory diseases, particularly in children. Latino neighborhoods have up to 21% less tree canopy coverage compared to predominantly White neighborhoods in the same cities. 

Solutions for nature access in urban areas should be a high priority to hit the nexus of biodiversity, climate gains, and societal benefits. In the U.S., the biggest hot spots for nature loss within communities of color are in metropolitan areas, usually Latino and African-American neighborhoods.

“For more than a decade, Hispanic Access has catapulted our trust-based community networks into action by providing access, capacity, and the belief to create beneficial changes in their communities,” said Hispanic Access Foundation President and CEO Maite Arce. "We are thrilled to support Malad City, ID to equip underserved communities with not only more trees and plants in their neighborhoods, but also the knowledge and resources to become engaged in urban forestry.” 

Malad City, ID has a rich history of promoting urban tree cover through its Urban Community Forestry (UCF) program, which began in 1994 with a downtown revitalization project. The program expanded with the Oneida Green Belt, a community-driven effort where over 300 trees and shrubs were planted along a 1.5-mile pathway. 

Building on this success, Malad City has recently acquired land adjacent to the park to implement further enhancements. This new project includes relocating the city's storm retention pond, installing soccer fields, and creating an additional 0.90-mile pathway lined with diverse tree species. These trees, selected for their ability to treat stormwater and thrive in the local environment, will offer shade, wildlife habitat, and environmental benefits like carbon sequestration and air purification. The project aligns with Malad City's Comprehensive Plan by promoting recreational opportunities, enhancing livability, and drawing on the area’s natural environment for sustainable development. Through this initiative, Malad City continues to foster a healthier, more vibrant community while supporting its residents' quality of life.

"The City of Malad is so excited about this new project,” said Malad City Mayor, Joan Hawkins.   “This will enhance our city's park area. We thank the U.S. Forest Service and Hispanic Access Foundation for working with us to make this plan a reality."

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service awarded more than $1 billion in competitive grants through the Urban and Community Forestry Program. Hispanic Access Foundation and the other awardees will be working towards advancing the mission of Justice40, to deliver 40% of the program’s investments through established and new partnerships working to support disadvantaged communities experiencing low tree canopy and environmental justice issues.