Forestry
Division Services & Information
The mission of the Bismarck Forestry Division is to manage and improve the health of the urban forest while enhancing the quality of life for our growing community.
Responsibilities
- Landscaping information
- Planting, pruning, and removal of trees
- Insects, diseases, and abiotic damage information
- Urban forestry information
- Community resources and programs
Boulevard Tree Planting
As we approach fall and cooler weather, it is still a great time for tree planting. Partners In Planting funds are still available this year on a first come, first serve basis. Click here for more information on the Partners In Planting program and how to request a boulevard tree planting permit.
Hot Topics
Winter Prep for Trees
This past year has been pretty variable across the state, especially in terms of tree stress. While early-season moisture was good throughout North Dakota, drought conditions have slowly crept back into several of the north-central and northeastern counties. As we prepare for winter, there are simple management actions that we can take to help trees survive the winter and even thrive next summer. For conifers, it’s very important that they go into winter fully hydrated. Read on for the full article retrieved from the September 21, 2023 NDSU Crop & Pest Report.
Fall Needle Drop
This past year has been tough on trees, especially evergreens. Starting in late August and early September, we often get a lot of calls and emails regarding evergreen needles turning brown or yellow. It’s the older, inner needles that are dying. This is actually normal and can be found in pines, spruces, arborvitae, and sometimes junipers.
Those older needles get shaded out by the newest growth, and become unproductive. The tree then sheds these needles; we’ve seen this happen as early as August though the situation is starting to increase across the state.
Pines hold their needles for 3-5 years before shedding them. Spruces usually hold on longer, about 5-8 years. What we’re seeing is normal, and it’s nothing to worry about.
*Information obtained from NDSU Extension Forestry