Years of advocacy efforts culminated last August in the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This law is the largest US investment in climate action to date and is filled with opportunities for landscape architects. While the legislation created an ambitious blueprint, now is the time to begin building real projects. Implementation of this federal law will take place primarily at the state and local levels.

Landscape architects are encouraged to familiarize themselves with specific IRA programs and the respective grant applications. To begin, reference the comprehensive list of programs found here. This spreadsheet will help to easily identify programs based on funding amounts and eligible applicants. Knowledge of these programs will position landscape architects to provide valuable application guidance and technical assistance for state and local governments.

ASLA Government Affairs has been, and will continue, alerting the membership through its iAdvocate network on IRA opportunities. Messages will contain details about funding announcements and informational webinars for IRA programs as they arise. If not already, be sure to sign up to the network and stay tuned for future alerts.

This early stage of implementation creates a once-in-a-generation opportunity for landscape architects to partner with state and local governments, and to seize a leadership role in the nation’s response to climate change. With the health, safety, and welfare of American communities at stake, landscape architects should make accessing these grants a top priority.