Trees for Nebraska Towns Program
Please note: the Trees for Nebraska Towns program is not currently accepting applications.
The community forest is a valuable and cherished part of any community, providing many significant benefits, both tangible and intangible. Unfortunately, many of Nebraska's community forests are in severe decline, as an alarming number of trees are lost every year due to weather extremes, insects, disease, limited diversity and human neglect and abuse. Now more than ever, it is critical that we strategically replant and properly maintain our community forests. By increasing the quantity, quality and diversity of trees in our communities, we also increase their resiliency to these challenges.
The Trees for Nebraska Towns Program contributes to this effort by providing free, high-quality trees to public-oriented projects in Nebraska communities. We encourage you apply for funding to support a tree-planting project in your community.
OUR FOCUS
- Smaller projects. This program provides up to 10 free trees for small-scale, public-oriented projects However, we are also willing to accept requests for more than 10 trees. Applicants requesting more than 10 trees will be required to complete a more extensive application. High-impact projects (especially street trees) and projects with an extensive outreach component will be given priority to receive a larger number of trees.
- Large, maturing shade trees, since they provide the most community benefits. Trees at time of receipt are large enough to have an impact, yet small enough to easily handle and plant.
- High-quality trees, with an emphasis on excellent root systems. Trees with healthy, well-developed root systems have a much greater chance of surviving and thriving.
- Diverse tree species. Having a diverse number of species significantly increases the resilience of a community forest.
- Proper siting, planting and long term care to ensure tree health and long-term success.
- Increased awareness of community forest benefits and how to maximize them. Watch these videos to learn more about how our community forests impact our health, economy, environment and quality of life.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Projects must be sponsored by a local group or organization. Potential applicants include tree boards, civic organizations, non-profits, neighborhood associations, government agencies, schools and arboretum curators.
The planting site must be in Nebraska, on property of civic importance that provides clear public benefit. Eligible planting sites include, but are not limited to, street right-of-way, parks, school campuses, grounds of civic buildings, recreation areas, neighborhood common areas and fairgrounds.
PROJECT TIMELINE
June-July 31: Applications are accepted
August 1-14: Applications are reviewed. Priorities are given to street tree projects, areas of clear public benefit and need, new applicants and new locations for previous applicants. Earlier submittals and proposed outreach can be tie-breakers.
August 15-22: All applicants notified of acceptance or denial. Recipients receive additional information and guidance on next steps.
Mid-late September: Trees are delivered by the Nebraska Forest Service/Nebraska Statewide Arboretum or nursery, OR are picked up by recipient.
By Oct. 15 (Panhandle): Trees are planted; outreach activities occur
By Nov. 15 (all other): Trees are planted; outreach activities occur
By December 19: Recipients submit required reporting information
APPLICATION PROCESS
Step 1: Review additional Trees for Nebraska Towns program details HERE.
Step 2: Complete and submit the application.
QUESTIONS?
For more information about the Trees for Nebraska Towns or the application process, please contact Kendall Weyers, Sustainable Communities Coordinator, at kweyers2@unl.edu
