Minneapolis Launches Initiative to Expand Urban Tree Canopy with Low-Cost Trees for Residents and Businesses

Minneapolis is launching a new initiative to boost its urban tree canopy by offering residents, property owners, and businesses low-cost trees. This move comes in response to significant losses of mature trees caused by severe weather events over the summer. Sydney Schaaf, the coordinator for the City Trees program, highlighted the impact of recent storms on the city’s mature trees and the importance of replacing them to ensure a sustainable future.

The funding for this tree-planting effort is part of the $10 million Climate Legacy Initiative, which outlines the city’s climate goals for the next decade. Specifically, $855,000 from this initiative is allocated to the City Trees program, which will help purchase 3,700 trees this year. The program will also support a tree sale and pickup event to facilitate the distribution of these trees.

Although new trees do not offer the immediate benefits of mature trees, Schaaf emphasized their long-term value. As these new trees grow, they will eventually provide the same ecological and aesthetic benefits as the older trees they replace. The initiative is seen as a proactive step toward enhancing the city’s environment and providing future generations with a robust tree canopy.

Mayor Jacob Frey praised the initiative for combining environmental protection with neighborhood beautification. He pointed out that while many environmental efforts focus on reducing activities, this program represents a positive action that both improves the environment and enhances community spaces. Local business owner Brad Hendrickson echoed these sentiments, noting the multifaceted benefits of trees, including improved air quality and a stronger sense of community.

The City Trees program offers a diverse selection of over 30 species to promote biodiversity and protect against future pests and diseases. Trees are priced at $30 each, with residents allowed to purchase up to three per address and businesses or property owners able to buy five or more.

The cost includes professional planting and ongoing care support. Applications for businesses are open until September 15, while residents can purchase trees through September 30. The program is designed to encourage private property owners to play a key role in expanding the city’s tree canopy.