MEDFORD, MA — The city has been awarded $20,000 for the Medford Canopy Improvement Initiative, Mayor Stephanie M. Burke announced Thursday. Grants were awarded to fourteen municipalities, amounts ranging from $2,000 to $20,000.

"I'm grateful to the Medford Tree Advocacy Group (MTAG) for taking the initiative and

applying for this grant. Increasing the tree canopy in our City will greatly assist us in

reaching our sustainability goals," Burke said in a statement.

The grant will allow Medford's tree canopy to grow by 25 percent in 2019. The city will plant new trees in places where the tree inventory is significantly lower. Additionally, the funds will contribute to numerous events including but not limited to community tree plantings, interactive events, and educational events.