Loveland Asks Residents to Suggest Tree Planting Sites

Loveland is launching the "Growing Loveland" program, inviting property owners to nominate public-right-of-way planting sites this year as a no-cost way to accelerate tree canopy restoration after Emerald Ash Borer losses.

Under the program, residents identify city easements adjacent to their property—typically the area between the sidewalk and street—that could benefit from new trees. Applicants submit nominations online, and city forestry staff select species based on the city's recommended tree list, prioritizing diversity, growth success, availability, and site conditions.

Trees will be planted in spring and fall in sites that are at least four feet wide.

Nearly 4,000 of the city's 25,000 public trees are ash, or 16 percent—a significant canopy risk from Emerald Ash Borer, which arrived in Loveland in June 2024.

To put Loveland's challenge in perspective, ash make up roughly 15 percent or more of urban trees statewide, according to the Colorado State Forest Service. Front Range cities have already treated or removed more than 17,000 public trees and spent over $9 million combating the pest—a costly burden Loveland wants to avoid.

"This program is a great way for residents to help us spot opportunities for canopy restoration," said City Forester Jeff Caputo. "It also supports our efforts to replace trees lost to the Emerald Ash Borer beetle and maintain a healthy, resilient urban forest."

The city typically plants 100 to 150 trees yearly based on staff recommendations; Growing Loveland shifts that by letting residents nominate sites.

Applicants must own the adjacent property; the city selects, plants, and funds the tree, while residents water and maintain it.

Growing Loveland uses existing Parks and Recreation forestry funding—no new budget required. About 65 percent of Loveland's public trees are in rights-of-way, making resident identification particularly valuable.

"Growing Loveland is part of the city's commitment to community engagement and urban forest health," Caputo said. "By working together, we can ensure Loveland's tree canopy continues to thrive for generations to come."

Residents can review eligibility requirements and apply online at https://go.lovgov.org/Growing-Loveland.