NE Iowa City Gets Grant for Urban Forest

DUBUQUE, Iowa (AP) — An initiative supported by horticulturists, gardeners and Dubuque leaders has been awarded a $2,000 grant to help encourage the growth of an urban forest that's ripe for the picking.

The effort aims to engage residents, businesses, churches, nonprofits and schools in integrating edible plants into their landscapes.

Leaders and supporters of the initiative called Edible Dubuque say making those plants available to the public will increase access to fresh food and opportunities for agrotourism.

The initiative was awarded the grant through Sustainable Dubuque. Grant funds from the city will go toward developing signs and a website educating residents about the various opportunities to forage in Dubuque.