Frequently Asked Questions

Applicant FAQ’s

What is the right-of-way?

If you have a detached sidewalk, it’s the strip of pervious surface (grass, gravel, plant matter) between the curb and your sidewalk. In the case of attached sidewalks, the public right-of-way begins at the curb and extends back anywhere from 3-10 feet.

Why only plant in the right-of-way?

Trees planted in the right-of-way offers benefits to the homeowner of the property and the entire community increasing the number of people who benefit from the numerous benefits trees provide. Additionally, our Tree Steward volunteers will need public access to newly planted trees to perform periodic tree health checks.

Can I pick what kind of tree I get?

Yes! We try to provide as many options to you as possible while still ensuring that the offered species are suitable for our harsh growing environment. Please note, we are limited by the species availability of nurseries which varies from season to season. We are unable to guarantee the availability of a certain species of tree. All homeowners will have the opportunity to choose from a shade tree, in first-come-first-served order unless there are power lines directly over the planting location. In which case homeowners will choose from the ornamental species available.

Why can’t I plant a crabapple in my right-of-way if I don’t have overhead lines?

Ornamental trees, such as crabapple varieties, have a wider growth habit than shade trees. They grow out not up, which is why we plant them under powerlines. Having a tree that grows outward is not ideal for a right-of-way due to the constant pruning required to keep the street and sidewalks clear of branches, per City Ordinance (12.16.050 B). The constant pruning of a tree is 100% preventable by ensuring the proper tree is planted in the proper place eliminating undue stress and possible failure.

When do I pick and pay for my tree(s)?

The purchase of your trees happens in step number 4 of our process found on the How It Works page. You’ll receive an email with instructions on how to choose your trees and provide payment. If you’re concerned about where your application is at in our process, please feel free to contact our office.

How often do you plant trees?

We have two planting days every year which are always the third Saturday in May and the third Saturday in September. Applications for those planting events open on March 1st and July 1st, respectively.

When can I apply for trees?

Spring applications open on March 1st and Fall applications open on July 1st. All trees are offered to homeowners on a first-come-first-serve basis. We encourage applicants to apply early to ensure their placement.

Volunteer FAQ’s

How do I volunteer to plant trees?

Planting volunteers are required to register for each planting event they plan to attend. Registration opens on March 1st for spring planting and July 1st for fall planting and is limited for safety reasons. Additionally, we require volunteers to be at least 12 years old, and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

How long do I need to volunteer for?

On planting day, volunteers plant for 3-4 hours starting in the morning, moving to 4-5 different planting locations. We also have volunteering opportunities that include helping behind the scenes on planting days. Volunteering events vary, but usually last no longer than 4 hours. Tree Steward volunteer hours depend on the availability of the Tree Steward and the growing season. Volunteers interested in attending committee meetings can expect a minimum of one meeting each quarter which usually last an hour and are held during the evenings. If you’re interested in joining the Board of Directors, please call our office at (307) 637-6428 for further details.

What should I wear?

Please wear weather appropriate clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. We suggest dressing in layers as temperatures can fluctuate significantly. Close toed shoes are required, and gloves, hats, and sunscreen are all highly encouraged.

What should I bring?

We recommend brining your friends, family, and neighbors! Be sure to have them register prior to the event and encourage them to bring a water bottle, gloves, hat, and sunscreen.

How do we get to the planting locations?

We highly encourage carpooling with other volunteers in your group to decrease the number of vehicles at each planting location.

How many trees does each crew plant?

Each crew plants 8-10 trees within city limits. Locations are dependent on applications received but we try to ensure planting locations are as close as possible to prevent unnecessary travel.

Other FAQ’s

Will tree roots get into my water and sewer lines?

Water and sewer lines are typically buried a lot deeper than your tree roots will ever go. Tree roots only grow in about the top 12 inches of soil. Water lines are pressurized and tree roots will not be able to enter them. However, if your trees are not watered properly and/or you have lines with cracks or breaks which are causing water to leak into the surrounding area your roots will take advantage of any opportunity to gain moisture. Roots are incredibly advantageous and will use the path of least resistance to get water. If you keep your trees watered and taken care of that should never be a problem.

It's so expensive to take care of trees why should i get one?

Yes, it may be pricey to have professionals prune or remove your trees (hopefully not for a long time) but the benefits that trees provide far outweigh the cost of caring for a tree over its lifetime. It may be hard to see that because some tree benefits are not tangible. Benefits like cleaning our air and water, reducing stress, reducing crime, and positively affecting our health are priceless. Trees are an investment. You put a little money in and receive a lifetime of benefits for yourself and future generations.