The City of Brookings has announced it will be bringing back the Brookings Urban Forest Initiative for 2022. The program, which started in 2021, is designed to enhance the health, long-term sustainability and beauty of the community’s trees.
“One of the most prominent features here in Brookings is the abundance of trees, whether in yards, tree-lined streets, or the City’s many parks,” says Parks Recreation and Forestry Director Dusty Rodiek. “We had tremendous public participation in last year’s program and we’re excited to bring it back once again. Trees residents plant through the program will help to preserve our community’s urban forest for years to come.”
Many of the trees that residents value in Brookings are mature, and some are in decline. With the looming threat of the Emerald Ash Borer, the City’s Parks, Recreation and Forestry department says, “now is the time to take the steps to ensure that our community forest remains a signature part of life in Brookings.” The City is offering property owners in the community the chance to plant trees at little or no cost on their property. Residents may plant trees in their yard or on City boulevards with approval of the location within the boulevard.
The program start date is April 20th (tree purchase receipts must be dated April 20th or later). It is open to City of Brookings residents who may plant a maximum of two trees per property each year. Approved participants will receive a reimbursement for up to $125 per tree planted with the submission of a paid receipt. If individuals aren’t comfortable planting trees themselves, they may also receive a planting reimbursement of up to $40 per tree.
A list of approved trees is available at participating local nurseries and on the City’s website. For more details about the program, residents may stop by the Parks, Recreation, and Forestry office in the City and County Government Center or visit www.cityofbrookings-sd.gov/urbanforest.