“Going green” can seem complicated, expensive, and labor-intensive. That’s not always the case! Throughout this series, you’ve learned easy and inexpensive ways to use less energy and save money.
Last week, you learned that adding a tree to your yard can increase your property value and help you save on energy costs. If planting a tree sounds like a difficult task to take on, this week’s article is for you! Many local programs in Northern Colorado can help. Here’s a quick guide:
Why Trees Help Your Home
- Trees boost curb appeal! The presence of larger trees in yards and on the street can add up to 15 percent to your home’s value.
- Trees shade buildings, windows, and air-conditioning units. Homes with well-placed trees can reduce air conditioning needs and save money on heating costs.
- Trees help with water drainage. Their leaf canopies minimize erosion caused by falling rain, and roots soak up water to make your yard’s soil healthy and fertile.
Community Canopy Program (Fort Collins)
Each year, the city of Fort Collins provides 1000 trees to residents for only $25 through their partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation’s Community Canopy Program.
“These trees will help homeowners in our community lower energy costs, filter air and water, reduce stormwater runoff, slow climate change, and green our neighborhoods.”
You can use their online tool to determine the ideal location to plant your tree for maximum savings on your energy bill. The tool even estimates the annual savings you can expect over time.
Share the Shade (Greeley)
Around 250 trees a year are removed from Greeley’s urban forest due to age, insects, diseases, and environmental events. The City of Greeley implemented this local program in Northern Colorado to promote tree planting in Colorado neighborhoods.
This program helps residents of Greeley purchase and plant trees on their property. Residents can purchase up to two trees per year. As a homeowner, you pay just $50. The City of Greeley covers the remaining expenses. That includes supplies, delivery, and professional installation.
Trees Across Arvada
Trees Across Arvada is a program connected to the Colorado Tree Coalition. The CTC is a nonprofit statewide organization dedicated to preserving, renewing, and enhancing Colorado’s community forests.
Each year this program provides 12 varieties of trees at a low cost. You can buy trees up to 10 feet tall, so you don’t have to wait years and years to reap the benefits of a shade tree. Reserve your trees in advance before they’re sold out!
These are just a few of the local programs in Northern Colorado that can help you plant a tree on your property. Check with your local city government to see what programs are available. That concludes our series on making your home greener. I hope you’ve learned at least one way to make your home more energy efficient. For more homeowner highlights, check out my previous articles or contact me directly! I’m here to help you make the most out of homeownership.
Happy planting!
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