Spring news from Iowa DNR
If you’re thinking of branching out and adding a new tree to your yard, keep these things in mind:
Start with research - Some species thrive under different conditions, so it’s always a good idea to study up on which trees would do the best in your yard.
• Consider all your needs - Different trees have different benefits, such as quick growth and how much shade they’ll give.
• Know what your yard has to offer - If you have heavy clay soil, you’ll want a tree that can handle wet conditions. A shorter tree is a great option for planting under power lines.
• Find the best place to plant - Check out i-Tree Design to help you decide where a tree in your yard could help with energy efficiency in your house.
Need trees?
Alliant Energy customers can purchase up to two trees per planting address at $25 per tree; trees retail for $75 or more. Find pick-up locations and dates, and an order form to reserve your trees on the DNR Residential Tree Programs webpage.
Check out the State Forest Nursery for diverse, native seedlings aviable for spring delvery in April and May.
Make new memories this spring exploring nature
Make plans this spring to explore nature, get some fresh air, and make new memories. From forests, state and local parks, rivers, wildlife areas and your own backyard, there are so many great places in Iowa to spend time in nature by yourself or with family and friends.
Project Learning Tree has a collection of backyard and exploring a local park activities perfect for spring explorations.
• Bursting Buds - find out what’s inside different buds in early spring, where leaves come from and how they form. Find out more at https://www.plt.org/family-activity/bursting-buds/?utm_medium=email&utm_...
• Birds and Worms - discover the value of camoflage and pretend to be birds in search of worms. Go to https://www.plt.org/family-activity/birds-and-worms/?utm_medium=email&ut...
• Sounds Around - explore nature by tuning in to the sounds of your environment. Find out at https://www.plt.org/family-activity/sounds-around/?utm_medium=email&utm_...
• The Shape of Things - look for shapes found in both natural and built environment. Go to https://www.plt.org/family-activity/the-shape-of-things/?utm_medium=emai....