Alliant Energy's Operation ReLeaf program offers residential utility customers in Iowa the opportunity to purchase landscape trees at discount prices.
This partnership initiative is funded by Alliant Energy and administered by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry and the conservation boards of host counties.
Since 2001, more than 45,341 new trees have been planted throughout the state of Iowa during 119 Operation ReLeaf events.
How the program works
Approximately 2,800 high-quality three- to eight-foot landscaping trees are offered for only $25 each during the spring and fall planting seasons. The trees, which retail for up to $125, are sold at on a first-come, first-served basis.
Download the examples of tree types available [PDF] (Not all tree varieties available at all distribution sites.)
Download the Operation ReLeaf Questions and Answers [PDF]
Planting Guide for your Operation ReLeaf tree [PDF]
The Operation ReLeaf program has three basic goals:
- Provide low-cost, high-quality and diverse landscape trees from local nurseries.
- Promote long-term community reforestation and energy conservation through efficient landscaping.
- Be flexible and responsive (on a residential basis) to communities and counties hard hit by storm damage.
Trees for Operation ReLeaf are purchased though a bidding process from local Iowa nurseries.
Eligibility and how to participate
Operation ReLeaf participants must be Alliant Energy customers and willing to pick-up their tree(s) on the day of distribution in their designated region. There is a limit of two trees per household.
Advance reservation is required. Fees paid for tree(s) not picked up on the designated distribution day will be considered a donation.
Fall 2013 Operation ReLeaf Locations
Before you order, determine the best location to plant your tree(s) to have the most energy efficiency impact by using this simple to use tool: http://www.itreetools.org/design.php
iTree Design works best using Google Chrome
To use iTree Design simply click on the link and follow these easy steps:
• Enter your address and click “go”
• Fill in the boxes on the left, leaving tree condition at excellent, click on the “Check here to evaluate energy effects” box
• Outline your house using the tool on the top of the page, click on the tree icon and move cursor around to see the benefits before you place your tree
• Click on “Continue & Estimate Full Benefits” to see the benefits your tree will provide
Clinton County – DeWitt
Partner: City of DeWitt
Location: TBD, Dewitt
Thursday, October 3, 2013 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Dallas County – Perry
Partner: Dallas County Conservation Foundation
Location: Dallas County Roads Maintenance Building, 1215 Iowa 141, Perry
Thursday, October 10, 2013 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Des Moines County – West Burlington
Partner: Des Moines County Extension
Location: TBD, West Burlington
Saturday, October 12, 2013 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Tree Planting and Care Workshop: 9:00 am
Fayette County – Fayette
Partner: Fayette County Conservation
Location: Wildwood Nature Center, 18673 Lane Road, Fayette
Date and Time: TBD
Linn County – Marion
Partner: Linn County Conservation Board
Location: Squaw Creek Park, 4305 Squaw Lane, Marion
Saturday, October 5, 2013 7:30 – 9:00 am
Marshall County – Marshalltown
Partner: Marshall County Conservation
Location: Grimes Farm, 2349 233rd St, Marshalltown
Saturday, September 14, 2013 9:00 – 11:00 am
Tree Planting and Care Workshop: 10:00 am
Washington County – Washington
Partner: Washington County Extension
Location: Washington County Fairgrounds, Thursday, September 26, 2013 4:00 pm – 6:00pm
Tree Planting and Care Workshop: 5:00 pm
Worth County – Northwood
Partner: Worth County Conservation Board
Location: TBD Thursday, September 19, 2013 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Contact information
Laura Wagner
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
502 East 9th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: 515-281-6749
Email: laura.wagner@dnr.iowa.gov