ASLASD 2025 Community Grant

The San Diego Chapter of ASLA was formed in 1976 to serve both the profession and the public on local issues dealing with the practice of landscape architecture. These issues include water conservation, political, environmental, urban design and quality of life issues. The “ASLA San Diego Community Grant “(Grant) was established in 1997 as a result of the Chapter’s commitment to the local community.

2025 ASLA Community Grant Application Form

Intention

In order for the profession of landscape architecture to make its full contribution to the San Diego region, the accessibility and understanding of the profession must be made known to the public at-large. This Grant is intended to educate and enhance community awareness of the profession of landscape architecture as well as to provide a benefit to the community or environment. The grant may cover or contribute toward the cost of practical work, capital investment or professional services.

Eligibility

All non-profit community groups recognized by the IRS and located in San Diego County that have been in continuous existence as a non-profit group for a minimum of three (3) years are eligible to apply for the Grant. Projects must prove that they have the support and involvement of their community and/or environmental interests within San Diego County and applications must show a clear benefit to the wider community.

What kind of project is eligible?

This Grant may be used to fund an improvement project in total, be combined with other resources to supplement a project’s funding or may act as “seed” money to jump start a project with a bigger vision. Many different types of projects are eligible. Ideas include, but are not limited to:

• Conversion of a high water-use landscape to a water efficient landscape in a high visibility area
• Trail improvements and habitat enhancement in an environmental area
• Development of a vacant lot into a public recreation area
• Design of an existing paved street median into a low water landscaped community gateway
• Preparing a feasibility study to convert an urban block into a sustainability pilot
• Conversion of a concrete drainage channel into a bio-swale water quality feature
• Restoration of an historic landscape

Successful projects will:

• Demonstrate the importance of landscape architectural principles and practices in helping to conserve and enhance the natural and built landscape, promote sustainable design and preserve the cultural heritage of San Diego
• Have the support and involvement of local citizens and groups and provide some benefit to the environment or community.

How much grant aid is available?

One (1) $5,000.00 Community Grant will be awarded in late 2024 to a qualified applicant. Grant funds will be distributed for a period of one (1) year from the date of signature on the Grant Agreement up to and not exceeding $5,000. Reimbursement will be paid when the recipient organization submits a reimbursement claim form and qualifying receipts for project expenses incurred. Expenses must be directly associated with the planning, design, installation or completion of the project (e.g. landscape architectural services, construction materials) including but not limited to plant materials, hardscape, irrigation supplies, installation labor, etc.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

You can contact Difan Chen at difanchen752@gmail.com with any questions.