Loveland Offers Free Trees to Fight Emerald Ash Borer

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The city of Loveland, Colorado is launching a new initiative called 'Growing Loveland' that will provide free trees to residents to plant in public easements near their homes. The program is a response to the threat of the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle that has been killing ash trees across the state, as well as ongoing drought conditions that have impacted the city's urban forest. Loveland hopes to plant 150 new trees this spring to help offset the anticipated loss of trees in the coming years.

Why it matters

Loveland has about 25,000 trees, with roughly 65% located in public rights-of-way. The city typically plants 100-150 new trees annually, but expects significant losses due to the emerald ash borer and drought. This new free tree program aims to engage residents to help identify planting locations and restore the city's valuable urban tree canopy.

The details

Through the 'Growing Loveland' initiative, residents can apply to have a free tree planted in the public easement near their home, typically the strip between the sidewalk and the street. The city will select and plant the tree, while participants are responsible for watering and maintaining it. Residents must own the property next to the public right-of-way and provide at least 4 feet of space for planting.

• Loveland plans to plant 150 new trees this spring.