Planting Forward: A Tree Restoration Initiative

Planting Forward: A Tree Restoration Initiative

What began as a bold recovery mission after the devastating 2020 derecho, has evolved into one of the most impactful community restoration efforts in Iowa — the Planting Forward program. This initiative, led by Monarch Research, is not just about replacing lost trees. It’s about rebuilding connections between people and nature, and educating about the land that sustains us all.

With more than 100,000 native trees already distributed across Linn County since 2020, the enthusiasm continued at an inspiring pace and the 2025 season turned out to be truly extraordinary. This year alone, an additional 22,255 trees will find new homes through the combined efforts of Planting Forward, Woodlands Native Tree Marketplace™ (a year-round resource offering high-quality, affordable native trees to residents), and new programs like One Child One Tree, that provides every child in Linn County their own native tree to plant and nurture. The initiative’s expansion means greater accessibility, more learning opportunities, and a lasting legacy of stewardship.

Nature's Powerful Learning Tool

At the heart of the Planting Forward mission is a simple but powerful idea — learning as we grow. Every tree we plant tells a story about why native species matter and how they help our environment thrive. Native trees have grown alongside Iowa’s wildlife for generations, offering food and shelter to birds, bees, and butterflies that depend on them. Through easy-to-access learning materials and hands-on planting opportunities, Planting Forward helps people understand this important connection. When we take the time to learn about native trees, we’re not just planting for today — we’re creating living lessons that inspire future generations to care for the world around them.

But perhaps the most powerful part of Planting Forward is its message: education leads to action. By learning about the power of native trees, individuals begin to see themselves as stewards of something greater. Every tree cared for and every conversation about biodiversity creates ripples of change that extend to communities beyond Linn County.

Where Passion Meets Purpose

None of this would be possible without the passionate volunteers and dedicated partners who bring this mission to life. With 169 partners — including organizations, colleges, schools, and government municipalities — the Planting Forward community continues to grow stronger each year, as thousands of hands and hearts come together to restore Linn County’s canopy, one tree at a time. Their energy fuels the program’s success, turning tree planting into a movement that blends community and compassion.

As we look ahead, the opportunity to get involved has never been greater. Whether you volunteer, plant a tree on your property, or simply share what you’ve learned about native species, you become part of a growing network of changemakers who are reshaping Iowa’s landscape and its future. Together, we’re not just restoring what was lost — we’re planting forward with purpose, with passion, and with a promise to keep learning as we grow.

Visit our Planting Forward, Woodlands Native Tree Marketplace™, and One Child One Tree program pages in 2026 for information about next year's seasons, or sign up to volunteer to help make a difference!