-Editorial
The Imperial Irrigation District (IID), in partnership with the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG), has been awarded a $2.9 million California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Inflation Reduction Act grant for the “Shade Trees for Southern California’s Deserts” initiative.
This new three-year program will plant 6,000 shade trees across the Imperial and Coachella Valleys to cool neighborhoods, improve air quality, and promote community resilience.
The project is launching this fall in communities near the Salton Sea, where IID aims to plant 1,000 trees by December 31. The District is partnering with Alianza Coachella Valley, a non-profit organization, to sign up residential customers for this year’s tree planting. IID is also working with the Desert Recreation District, Indio, to identify park sites within the same target area.
“This grant represents a transformative step forward for our desert communities,” said IID Board Chairwoman Gina Young Dockstader. “Planting thousands of shade trees will reduce heat, lower energy costs, and create healthier, more livable neighborhoods for our residents.”
Strategically planted trees can help reduce the urban heat island effect, lower energy demand, and make outdoor spaces safer and more comfortable during extreme heat. The program also prioritizes equity by focusing on underserved communities, including those around the Salton Sea, where increased green spaces can provide the greatest health and environmental benefits.
“This partnership between IID and CVAG shows the power of regional collaboration,” said IID Vice Chair JB Hamby. “Together, we’re helping our communities adapt to a changing climate while creating cooler, greener places to live and play.”
IID and CVAG will work with local governments and community groups to identify priority planting areas, conduct outreach, and provide education on tree care and long-term sustainability.
It is important to note that the “Shade Trees for Southern California’s Deserts” initiative is separate from, and in addition to, IID’s existing Tree for All program. While both efforts share the goal of expanding tree canopy coverage and improving environmental conditions in IID’s service area, this new initiative is funded through a distinct CAL FIRE grant and delivered in partnership with CVAG.
The “Shade Trees for Southern California’s Deserts” initiative marks a significant investment in the future of desert communities, advancing environmental stewardship while improving everyday quality of life for residents across the region.
Funding for the project is provided by the Inflation Reduction Act and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program, in partnership with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE).
For further information about this 2025 shade tree program, please email info@iidshadetrees.com or call 1-760-332-8237. Details for the years 2026, 2027, and 2028 will be announced when available.
