February is upon us and the cold has moved in making winter official. This is the perfect time to be thinking about an opportunity to be given a tree replacement for your property. Be a part of a much larger project which is creating a town tour of trees more diverse than what currently exists such as newer cultivars than your established trees and some native trees.

The Colorado Forest Service and Heginbotham Trust awarded funds to help homeowners in Haxtun replace a tree that was damaged or taken down by the storm in June 2020. There are three things to consider before applying: a three-year commitment is part of the grant requirement, watching a webinar on tree planting and care; and as part of the tree replacement, the tree be placed in a front or side yard visible to the street. This is because the replacement trees are more diverse of species than what Haxtun currently has and will be a demonstration to show visitors and new residents what can do well here.

The tree list consists of newer cultivars of elms, crabapple and more along with some native trees that tolerate drought and harsh conditions. At this time, there are still a few trees left before the funds are gone. Pre-orders are required before the end of February.

Karie Wilson, Haxtun Town Clerk, has applications available for pickup at the Town Hall. Applications give further details about the timeline commitment. The deadline for applications is Feb. 19.

Please contact Linda Langelo at Sedgwick County Extension at (970) 474-3479 or by cell (970) 768-2716.