Lombardy Elementary Adds Eight Trees Under Federal Grant
The Delaware Forest Service planted the trees at the Wilmington school as part of an Inflation Reduction Act urban forestry program.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Primary Education
The Delaware Forest Service planted eight trees at Lombardy Elementary School in Wilmington on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The planting brings the school's total to 20 new trees over two years, following 12 trees planted in fall 2025.
Why it matters
The planting was funded through the Inflation Reduction Act Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program, which supports tree planting and community education in eligible communities. Wilmington residents and students gain new shade and green space on school grounds.
The eight new trees were planted under a federal grant, with the school's total reaching 20 trees over two years. The source does not state the species planted or how many of the trees are expected to survive.
The players
Delaware Forest Service
The state agency responsible for managing Delaware's forests and administering urban and community forestry programs, including federally funded tree planting initiatives.
Ashley Melvin
An education specialist with the Delaware Forest Service who delivers tree-related educational programming to students.
The details
Delaware Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry team worked with school representatives to plant the trees and advised on planting techniques for long-term health. Education Specialist Ashley Melvin also led a tree education activity for students.
Timeline
Fall 2025: 12 trees planted at Lombardy Elementary School.
Thursday, November 5, 2026: Eight trees planted at the school.
Season Trajectory
The planting is a local example of how the Inflation Reduction Act's Urban and Community Forestry grants are being put to use across eligible communities. Schools are one of the settings where that federal funding is extending tree canopy in cities like Wilmington.
Students and staff at Lombardy Elementary will have new trees on school grounds providing shade and green space. Families in the surrounding Wilmington neighborhood may benefit from the expanded tree canopy over time.
The takeaway
Federal grants can bring tangible green infrastructure to local schools when communities apply for them. Schools and organizations in eligible areas may find funding for tree planting and community education through these programs.
Further reading
Explore more local coverage in Primary Education for other school-based initiatives in the Wilmington area.
More information
Learn about funding and eligibility on the Delaware Urban and Community Forestry grant funding and application information page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by State of Delaware News.
