The 2020 derecho injured or destroyed trees in every community in Tama County. In the following years, additional trees have been lost to emerald ash borer, disease, and ice storms.

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 significant losses, 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 three communities in the county on April 29 and three more communities on May 6. 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 April 29, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, trees will be available in the following locations:

-Montour: City Clerk’s office/Community Center

-Toledo: Tama County Extension and Outreach

-Chelsea: Fire Station

On May 6, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, trees will be available at these locations:

-Traer: City Hall/TMU parking lot

-Tama: Civic Center

-Gladbrook: Tama County Fairgrounds

Limit two trees per household. The following species will be distributed: Serviceberry, Hackberry, Bur Oak, River Birch, Pin Oak, Silver Maple, Wild Plum, Mixed Oaks, 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.