MARION, Iowa — The City of Marion and Monarch Research are working together to create the next community-wide tree planting program to restore greenery to the city.

This new Planting Forward program aims not only to reforest Marion after thousands of trees were lost in the 2020 derecho, but also to plant trees in areas along roads and sidewalks that previously had bare trees.

“These trees are planted on public property, so it’s a right-of-way program that we’re promoting right now. Residents can request up to three trees to be planted on their right-of-way. The process is very simple and takes less than five minutes,” said Brent Neighbor, assistant director of parks and recreation for the City of Marion.

Interested parties must commit to planting, watering and protecting the trees as they grow. Once you register and provide your address, city forestry department staff will provide drive-by inspection services to verify the type, location and number of trees suitable for the available right-of-way. 3- to 5-gallon trees are available, and each resident can receive up to three trees. Monarch Research provides the trees to residents and landowners at no cost.

Monarch Research also provides planting supplies including:

• A 5 foot high pre-cut galvanized steel fence roll
• A steel post for fence support with cable ties
• A plastic trunk protector
• Hardwood chip mulch

“We’re looking for people who actively want the trees on their property. And that’s the kind of partnership we’re looking for. They would come and pick up their tree, we would give them training on how to do it. We have videos on our website that show proper planting techniques and post-planting care,” Neighbor said. “The more they take care of it afterward, the more successful the planting will be.”

For program details, planting tips, and the list of available native tree species, visit the City of Marion website or the Monarch Research Project website. Registration is open now through September 13, 2024.