Branching Out Dubuque Tree-Planting Initiative Kicks Off Saturday, August 24 

AUGUST 15, 2024

Sustainable Dubuque will join community partners to kick off the Branching Out Dubuque tree-planting initiative on Saturday, Aug. 24, at 9 a.m. at the Eagles Watch Audubon Overlook at the 16th Street Detention Basin The public is invited to attend. 

More than 30 trees will be planted that morning along the Lower Bee Branch by City leaders, project partners, neighborhood association leaders, and other members of the community. Plantings will be led by members of Dubuque Trees Forever, which will also provide materials and equipment. Dubuque Trees Forever volunteers will also demonstrate proper planting techniques and be available for questions regarding tree planting, care, and maintenance. 

Kickoff ceremony attendees are encouraged to park off of E. 16th Street, beneath the U.S. Highways 61/151 overpass near the 16th Street Detention Basin. 

Branching Out Dubuque is a cooperative effort by Sustainable Dubuque and Dubuque Trees Forever to plant over 5,000 new trees in the community over the next five years. The project is funded by a nearly $1.5 million grant from the United States Forest Service. The additional trees are expected to increase the city’s overall tree canopy to 40%, advancing one of the goals of Dubuque’s Climate Action Plan. 

The initiative also includes targeted tree planting in disadvantaged census tract areas within the Washington Neighborhood, Point Neighborhood, North End, and West End. Residential property owners and businesses in the eligibility areas may sign up to receive free trees for planting on their property. Tree planting assistance is also available. 

To determine if your property is located in one of the four tree-planting eligibility areas, visit www.sustainabledubuque.org/branchingoutdbq and enter your address into the Branching Out Dubuque interactive eligibility map. 

Residents and business owners interested in receiving free trees to plant on their property can sign up through a form at www.sustainabledubuque.org/branchingoutdbq or call 563-690-6038. 

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MEDIA CONTACT
Gina Bell, Sustainability Director
GBell@cityofdubuque.org, 563.690.6038