Bismarck property owners interested in planting boulevard trees are invited to take advantage of a cost-sharing program called Partners in Planting.  Trees that are “balled and burlapped,” or growing in pots can be planted throughout the summer and fall.  So far this year, 81 properties have taken advantage of this program planting 173 boulevard trees.  The Partners in Planting Program is in its twenty-second year and continues to be very popular. Each year community minded sponsors partner with the City of Bismarck to provide funds for a matching grant to help homeowners plant street trees. This grant offers a direct reimbursement to citizens and businesses who plant trees in the City's boulevard area adjacent to their property. The private contributions are matched by the City of Bismarck.  Property owners planting boulevard trees are eligible for reimbursement of 50% of the cost of the tree(s) up to $100 per tree with a maximum reimbursement of $700 per property. 

To participate, a property owner must first obtain a Permit to Plant Trees on Public Street Right of Way from the Forestry Division.  The permit can be requested online at www.bismarcknd.gov/forestry or by calling the Forestry Division at 701-355-1733.  After the permit request is made a forester will conduct an on-site inspection to determine where trees can be planted, what species are suitable for the site and issue the permit.  This service is free of charge and in most cases it is not necessary for the homeowner to be present.  The property owner can then purchase the trees and plant them, or have them planted. 

Once the trees are planted, mail the top copy of the permit and a copy of the receipt for the trees to the Forestry Division by December 15, 2018.  The trees will then be inspected for proper planting depth and placement, and overall health.  After the planting is approved the paperwork will be processed and a check will be sent to the property owner.  Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing.  Funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis so it is important to submit the permit and receipt as soon as the trees are planted. 

For more information, visit Partners in Planting.