The Aug.10 derecho injured or destroyed trees in every community in Tama county. For some communities, this event followed several storms over the past few years that had already left their mark on the tree population in the area.

Trees are an important part of our landscape. They provide beauty and shade. Trees are an important food source for wildlife and pollinators. Did you know that trees help clean the air, control soil erosion, and conserve water?

In response to the derecho, the Tama County Master Gardeners will be distributing free native tree seedlings to help residents replace some of the lost trees. All seedlings will be bareroot and 18-30 inches tall. Master Gardeners will distribute the trees, planting and care information, and literature about each species. Trees will be available in eleven communities in the county, with some receiving trees this fall and others receiving them next spring. It is the responsibility of those receiving the trees to plant them and perform the care needed for survival. Please check local tree ordinances for placement of trees, call 811 before digging, and consider proximity to buildings and overhead lines when choosing your planting location.

On November 7, from 10:00 AM-noon, trees will be available in the following locations:

Lincoln – West end of fire station

Montour- City Clerk’s office/Community Center

Garwin- City park

Dysart-City park open shelter

On November 14, from 10:00 AM-noon, trees will be available in Traer at the city hall/TMU parking lot.

Please practice social distancing and wear facecoverings when coming to pick up trees.

Limit two trees per household. The following species will be distributed: Serviceberry, Sugar Maple, Hackberry, Bur Oak, River Birch, Pin Oak, and Buttonbush. Not all species will be at each location. They will be handed out on a first come basis.

Questions can be directed to Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Tama County at 641-484-2703.