City offers free Tiny Trees program

Des Moines Public Works is once again offering up to five FREE Tiny Trees to residents. The trees may be planted on private property to help grow and diversify the urban canopy. Residents may choose from eight different species ranging including shade trees ornamental trees (i.e., trees that reach a maximum of 20 feet tall), fruit and nut trees, and coniferous trees. Ordered trees will be available for pickup Saturday, May 11.

Trees provide numerous benefits including lower utility bills, improved stormwater retention, increased property values, and a greater use of the outdoors. Since 2017, the Tiny Trees program has provided tens of thousands of free trees to Des Moines residents.

Over the last several years, the Lower Beaver Neighborhood has lost a number of trees. One of the most significant causes of this has been the emerald ash borer, which has killed thousands of untreated trees throughout central Iowa.

For more information or to order your Tiny Trees, check out the city’s website.