SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) Property owners in Sioux Falls have been hit with big bills for removing trees destroyed by the Emerald Ash Borer, but city officials say help is on the way. The city has announced the CommuniTree Program, a five-year $3 million USDA grant that will fund the planting of more than 2,500 new trees along public rights-of-way. Urban Forestry Specialist Brian Peterson says the goal is to replant wisely and avoid the mistakes made during the Dutch Elm Disease outbreak decades ago. The program will cover both the planting and the first year of care for the new trees. Qualified property owners will be contacted by the city.
Sioux Falls Launches $3M Tree Replanting Program
Sioux Falls property owners dealing with the costly removal of Emerald Ash Borer–damaged trees will soon see relief through the city’s new CommuniTree Program. Backed by a five-year, $3 million USDA grant, the initiative will plant more than 2,500 trees along public rights-of-way. Urban Forestry Specialist Brian Peterson says the program aims to replant smarter than during the Dutch Elm Disease era, with the city covering planting and the first year of care. Qualified property owners will be contacted directly.
