Woodlands Native Tree Marketplace™

Now Open for Year-Round Ordering!

Online ordering opens Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 7:00 AM (CST), and closes Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 5:00 PM (CST).

Rebuilding Linn County's Green Canopy: A Year-Round Native Tree Initiative

The devastating 2020 derecho left an indelible mark on Linn County's landscape, but hope is taking root through an expanded initiative that's making it easier than ever for residents to restore our treasured tree canopy. This weekend we announced Woodlands Native Tree Marketplace: now accepting orders year-round, complementing the successful Planting Forward program that has already helped restore thousands of trees across our community.

This program provides all Linn County residents access to high-quality native trees at nursery-direct prices, empowering them to rebuild the tree canopy devastated by the 2020 derecho.

A Vision for a Greener Future

The numbers tell a compelling story: 100,000 native trees have already found new homes in Linn County through these initiatives, with another 100,000 planned for the next five years. This fall alone, 22,000 trees stand ready for planting, marking a significant milestone in our community's recovery and renewal efforts.

"This program offers our community a unique opportunity to actively participate in revitalizing our landscape," says Clark McLeod, Founder of Monarch Research. "By simplifying the process and making native trees affordable, we are not only helping our environment recover but also ensuring a greener future for generations to come."

Why Native Trees Matter

When it comes to rebuilding our local ecosystem, not just any trees will do. Native trees are the cornerstone of a healthy environment, perfectly adapted to thrive in our local conditions. These natural champions support an intricate web of life, providing essential food and shelter for countless species that call Iowa home.

Making Tree Planting Accessible to All

The expanded Woodlands Native Tree Marketplace removes traditional barriers to tree planting through several key features:

• Choose from 25 different native species, including the mighty Iowa Oak, with protective deer fencing available for those who need it
• Place your orders anytime throughout the year, with the main ordering window for fall 2025 planting running from February 8 through September 15
• Access high-quality trees at remarkably affordable prices - just $25 for a 3-gallon tree
• Benefit from trees sourced from the Midwest's largest native nursery, featuring the advanced RPM Rooting System
• Opt for convenient pickup or delivery, with full details available by October 1, 2025

Beyond Tree Planting: A Community Movement

Not sure this is for you? We've created multiple pathways for community involvement:

The One Child One Tree program gifts a native tree to every child in Linn County, planting the seeds of environmental stewardship in our youngest community members. Through the Planting Forward Employee Program, local organizations can help their employees participate in reforestation efforts. For those wanting to take direct action, volunteer opportunities abound - from planting trees to distributing acorns and supporting pollinator habitats.

Join the Movement

Founded on the principle that global environmental challenges require local action, Monarch Research continues to lead the way in ecosystem restoration through research, education, and community engagement. Our work protects vital pollinators like the Monarch butterfly, rebuilds native habitats, and promotes biodiversity for a healthier environment.

Ready to be part of this transformative initiative? Visit our volunteer page to learn more about how you can contribute to Linn County's green revival. Whether you're planting a single tree or volunteering your time, every action helps rebuild our natural heritage for future generations.