Free Tree Giveaway in Linn County: What You Need to Know

The 2020 derecho that roared across Eastern Iowa can still be felt six years later. While many homes and businesses have been repaired and rebuilt, the tree canopy in cities like Cedar Rapids will take generations to rebuild. Experts say that Cedar Rapids lost 3/4th of its tree canopy that day. Now, an organization is giving free trees to help bring back some shade to the city.

Linn County Families Can Get a Free Tree

Monarch Research is offering free trees to families in Linn County. CBS2 reports that Monarch will provide one free tree per child or grandchild within a family. The free trees are all species native to the state of Iowa. You can find a full list of the trees that are available HERE.

How Do I Get My Free Tree?

CBS2 reports that the deadline to order your free trees is Friday, July 24th. You can pick up a form at participating Hy-Vee stores or at the Indian Creek Nature Center. All applicants must provide proof of their children and an address within Linn County. Tree pickup will happen at Hy-Vee stores in October, and trees will be given out on a first come first serve basis, according to CBS2.

If you are not a resident of Linn County, but would still like a tree through the Monarch program, CBS2 reports that trees are nearly half off retail price, courtesy of The Woodlands Program.