City Council renews sponsorship of Front Yard Tree Program

Up to 52 trees to be planted by Brookhaven and Trees Atlanta

Brookhaven, GA, Sept. 11, 2020 – Influenced by the popularity of last year’s inaugural Brookhaven/Trees Atlanta Front Yard Tree Program, the City Council has unanimously agreed to provide another $13,000 in support of a 2020-21 version of the program. The move was made at the regular Sept. 8 Council meeting.

In this partnership, Trees Atlanta will plant up to 52 trees (up from 40 trees last year) in the front yards of Brookhaven residents.  Homeowners will receive either a White, Nuttall, Willow, Shumard, or Overcup oak trees, between six and eight feet in height.  Trees Atlanta will plant the tree and provide the initial mulching and watering and include a two-year replacement guarantee.

“We all recognize that shade trees enhance Brookhaven’s tree canopy, which in turn enhances Brookhaven’s quality of life,” said Mayor John Ernst. “Last year, residents rushed within days to take advantage of this program, and we believe enthusiasm will be the same if not greater this year. People need to act fast, however, because participation is once again on a first come, first served basis.”

From Oct. 1, 2020 to April 15, 2021, residents can apply at www.treesatlanta.org/yardtree and select “Brookhaven,” while quantities last.  A one-time $25 application fee is required that will help go toward the cost of the tree.  After the application is completed online, a representative from Trees Atlanta will contact the homeowner to discuss the appropriate species and location of the tree.  The actual planting of the trees will likely take place in February at the beginning of the tree planting season. As part of the participation agreement, the resident agrees to water the trees roughly every 10 days for the first year and to call Trees Atlanta if the tree shows signs of stress, needs staking, or there are any other issues with the tree.

Once all applications are received, Trees Atlanta will visit all sites to ensure they can accommodate a front yard tree. In addition, planting days will be open to the surrounding neighborhood so that others can learn how to properly plant and maintain trees on their own property. All trees must be planted in the front yard no more than 35 feet from the front property line to ensure they provide a public benefit. This will ensure the new trees are visible from andprovide shade for the right of way.

“Brookhaven’s inaugural program was very well received last year and applauded by the community,” noted Brian Borden, Director of Parks and Recreation. “Support of this program once again shows that the City of Brookhaven continues to make tree and greenspace preservation a priority.”