CDBG-Derecho Recovery Tree Planting Grant

CDBG - Derecho Recovery Tree Planting Frequently Asked Questions

The City of Marshalltown will be planting trees in residential and business rights-of-way/terraces as part of the Community Development Block Grant; Iowa Economic Development Authority Derecho Recovery Grant. In the Fall 2025 season, we will be planting nearly 330 trees, including in the right-of-way/terrace near your house. Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding this project.

What is the plan?

This is a multi-year effort to plant approximately 330 trees in parks and along streets in Marshalltown's First Ward to restore and expand the urban tree canopy lost during the 2020 derecho storm. Below is a map that demonstrates the neighborhoods where trees will be planted with an orange overlay:

Why are trees important?

The core motivation for increasing the City’s tree canopy is the goal to secure the many benefits that trees provide for all Marshalltown residents. Trees are not just about beautification. They clean water, reduce flooding, absorb and store carbon dioxide, and clean the air. Trees are critical in reducing energy costs, decreasing crime, and cooling neighborhoods that tend to be hotter than surrounding areas. They increase home values, and create habitats for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. A large body of research has demonstrated that trees help improve learning, accelerate healing, and inspire outdoor physical activity. 

Why is a tree being planted at my address?

“Right-of-way” refers to the City’s property from the centerline of the street extending toward your house. Sometimes the area behind the curb includes a sidewalk, but not always. Depending on the neighborhood, the City’s right-of-way may extend a few feet from the curb toward the house, but in some cases the right-of-way extends 20, 25, and even 30 feet from the curb. You can find the depth of the right-of-way at your address by visiting the County Assessor's website.

The City reserves ownership of the right-of-way for the placement of vital infrastructure such as utilities, traffic signs, fire hydrants, streetlights, and snow storage. Trees are also considered vital infrastructure in Marshalltown. 

Is tree planting optional?

The City is planting trees on select rights-of-way as part of the Derecho Recovery Grant, whether or not there was a tree in a location before the derecho. As already noted, trees planted in the right-of-way are part of the City’s public infrastructure and residents cannot “opt out” of a tree being planted. Trees in the right-of-way may not be removed or altered.

When will the trees be planted?

Planting will begin early to mid-October, and may occur over several non-consecutive days. Crews may plant into November as weather allows, and continue in April of 2026. 

Can I choose the type of tree planted?

The City has developed a list of trees to be planted based on location, soil conditions, and diversity goals. Due to the number of trees being planted, we cannot accommodate personal preferences. The Master Tree List of the kinds of trees being planted as part of this project can be viewed in the table below:

Before Planting

Could more than one tree be planted at my address?

Yes, if there’s sufficient room, multiple trees may be planted at your address. Trees are planted 30 feet on-center if they are shade trees, and 20 feet on-center if they are low-growing species, which are only planted under powerlines. This spacing has been adopted to encourage tree roots to intertwine with neighboring trees, making the trees more resilient and stronger during wind events. 

How can I learn more about this program?

You can review the Derecho Recovery Grant Plan here. This page includes a downloadable version of the Plan along with a tally of the number of trees planted.

How will I know where a tree will be planted?

A white “x” will be spray-painted on the curb and a flag will be placed to mark the proposed planting location. 

What about utilities in the right-of-way?

City staff and the contractor will work with Iowa OneCall to perform utility locates prior to digging and planting. City staff may ask residents to assist by providing information on the location of utilities running to their home.

What if I have a sprinkler system or underground feature in the area?

Private utilities are not marked by Iowa OneCall. Please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (641) 754-5715 so staff can adjust the planting location if necessary.

Watering and Maintenance

Do I need to water the tree?

You are not responsible for watering the trees. For the first two years after planting, the contractors who plant the trees will water them. Gator/irrigation bags will be filled with 10 gallons of water per week if it rains less than one inch during that time.

Who replaces the mulch and how often?

The City or its contractors will maintain the mulch for two years after planting. After that, we encourage residents to keep mulch in place to protect the tree trunk from mowers and weed whips. Mulch also helps hold moisture in the soil around the roots and insulates the tree roots in the winter months. 

Will the trees be staked?

Yes, trees will be staked by the contractor. All stakes will be removed after one to two years to encourage healthy root development.

Can I stake a right-of-way tree?

We ask residents not to stake a tree. If you are concerned about a tree, please contact the City to request that the tree be assessed. See the end of this page for how you can submit a concern.

Will I need to trim the new tree?

You are not responsible for trimming your new right-of-way tree during the first two years. After two years, you will be responsible for trimming your right of way tree according to the City Ordinances in Chapter 58: Vegetation.

Who do I contact with questions or concerns?

We want to hear from you! Contact the Parks and Recreation Department with comments, questions or concerns by email at precoffice@marshalltown-ia.gov or by phone at (641) 754-5715.