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Marshalltown Parks and Recreation has been awarded a $30,000 tree planting grant from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to help restore and strengthen Marshalltown's urban tree canopy.
According to the Iowa DNR, the 2026 Iowa Tree Planting Grant, offered through the USDA Forest Service Inflation Reduction Act, supports tree planting projects in public spaces across Iowa. The program aims to diversify urban tree canopies, improve environmental and health benefits, reduce energy costs and enhance access to parks and natural areas.
Through the grant, 120 new trees will be planted over the next four planting seasons: Fall 2026, Spring 2027, Fall 2027 and Spring 2028. The trees will be planted in public spaces and city rights-of-way throughout Marshalltown, helping replace trees lost over the years and adding new trees to areas where they are needed most.
Marshalltown's tree canopy has experienced significant losses from several major events and challenges, including the 2020 Derecho, tornado damage and the Emerald Ash Borer, which has resulted in the loss of many mature ash trees throughout the community. This grant provides an opportunity to continue rebuilding the community's tree canopy while investing in the long-term health, beauty and environmental benefits trees provide.
"Trees are an important part of what makes Marshalltown a great place to live, work and play," said Kristin Titus, Marshalltown Parks and Recreation Parks Supervisor. "This grant allows us to continue replacing trees that our community has lost while also looking ahead and creating a healthier, stronger tree canopy for future generations."
Marshalltown Parks and Recreation will work with Marshalltown Trees Forever throughout the planting seasons. Plant dates are at 10 a.m. on Oct. 10 and Oct. 17. Community members who are interested in volunteering to help plant trees are encouraged to contact Marshalltown Trees Forever at donisheldon75@gmail.com to learn more about upcoming planting opportunities.
Marshalltown Trees Forever has been partnering with Marshalltown Parks and Recreation since 1991. They have planted over 3,000 trees in the Marshalltown area.