IOWA CITY, Iowa — After the 2020 derecho, over 200,000 trees were lost in Johnson County. Iowa City is currently working to increase and expand its tree canopy. Discounted tree coupons are now available to make it a little easier for everyone to participate.
Launched in September 2020, the Root for Trees program offers discounts to Iowa City residents and business owners to encourage tree planting to rebuild the city’s tree canopy.
“They can apply for a $125 voucher for a tree, that’s a 50% off voucher. If they’re income eligible, they can apply for a 90% off voucher,” said Megan Hill, Iowa city climate engagement specialist.
Trees purchased through the program must be planted on the buyer’s private property. Even non-owner renters can plant trees on their property with their landlord’s permission. Residents who want to plant their tree on a right-of-way must obtain a free permit from the city before purchasing the tree. A right-of-way refers to a strip of land used for the passage of people or vehicles or along a road.
The goal of the program, however, is not just to increase Iowa City’s tree canopy, but to make it more diverse.
“That’s why no maple trees are allowed and no pear trees are allowed. Most of our tree canopy is actually maple trees, so what we’re hoping to do with this program is to make our tree canopy more diverse so that a new insect or a new disease doesn’t attack all of our maple trees and we lose even more of our tree canopy,” Hill said.
Although maple and pear trees are not eligible for rebates, there are still plenty of other options to choose from. Click here to see a list of trees recommended for this program.
Tree vouchers can be redeemed at Iowa City Landscaping and Garden Center or Earl May Garden Center.
The application period is now open and ends May 1. Vouchers issued during this grant cycle will remain valid through May 15, 2025. For more information about the Root for Trees program, visit the City of Iowa City website under the Root for Trees rebate program and apply for a voucher there.
