After storms topple mature trees, city of Minneapolis reminds residents of low-cost tree program
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The city of Minneapolis is offering residents, property owners and businesses low-cost trees in efforts to grow the city’s tree canopy, at a time when the city has lost some mature trees to severe weather.
“We’ve had a lot of storms this summer, and unfortunately, we have lost a lot of mature trees,” said Sydney Schaaf, coordinator for the City Trees program.
Funding comes from the $10 million Climate Legacy Initiative, which outlines the city’s goals in addressing climate change over the next 10 years. The initiative allocated $855,000 towards the City Trees program.
“Planting a new, smaller tree will not have the same benefits as a mature old tree, but it is still the best thing you can do, because for the next generation that will be an old and mature tree,” Schaaf said.
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The funding will help to purchase 3,700 trees this year and support the tree sale and pickup event.
“When we talk about protecting our environment, we often talk about doing less,” Mayor Jacob Frey said. “There is actually a way where we can go on offense, where we can protect our environment and simultaneously beautify our neighborhoods.”
Brad Hendrickson is the owner of Hub Manufacturing on Broadway Street. He said he purchased 13 trees to plant on his business property after noticing a decline in trees around the city due to construction and weather events.
“I believe trees are essential. They do so much more than provide shade and beauty. They improve air quality, support wildlife, create a sense of wellbeing and a connection to nature. Trees are an investment in the future of our community,” Hendrickson said.
The city outlines other ways in which planting more trees would benefit residents, such as lowering utility bills and increasing property values.
Schaaf said the program provides a diverse range of 30 or more species for residents and businesses to choose from in order to create biodiversity within the canopy.
“So, when the next pest or disease comes through, it doesn’t decimate so much of the canopy like it did with emerald ash borer or some of the other invasive pests or diseases,” Schaaf said.
The pricing is set at $30 per tree. Minneapolis residents can purchase up to three trees per address while supplies last through Sept. 30.
Businesses, organizations, and owners of rental properties with five or more units can also purchase trees, with priority given to those requesting five or more trees. Applications are open through Sept. 15. The cost includes consultation with a landscaper, professional planting, and mulch and watering bags to assist in caring for trees.
“We know that the largest opportunity to increase the tree canopy is on private property, and so we're really encouraging people to take advantage of our city trees programs.” Schaaf said.