The City of Brighton is bringing back its annual 2025 Tree program to improve community forests within the city and open spaces, according to a news release on Feb. 13.
The City of Brighton partners with the Colorado Tree Coalition, a volunteer non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that collaborates with entities such as the U.S. Forest Service and the Colorado State Forest Service to support community forestry throughout Colorado, aiming to preserve, renew, and enhance community forests.
According to the Colorado Tree Coalition, trees enhance air quality, conserve water, and support wildlife. They also mitigate the impacts of sun, wind, and rain. In the summer, trees offer shade that keeps us cool and shields us from direct sunlight. The initial fall of rain, sleet, and hail is either absorbed or deflected by trees, protecting people, pets, and buildings.
Additionally, trees intercept water, store some of it, and reduce storm runoff and the risk of flooding. A windbreak can affect wind speed and direction. The temperature near trees is cooler than that further away- the more significant the tree, the greater the cooling effect. Using trees in urban areas can help mitigate the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings, according to the Colorado Tree Coalition.
The program encourages community planting of diverse species within the City of Brighton. The city offers 11 species of trees for purchase, chosen to suit Brighton’s water needs and soil conditions, according to officials.
The program is only available for Brighton residents. Each tree costs $85, and a maximum of two trees is allowed per household. The trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis until sold out. They will be available in mid-April, and customers who purchase a tree online will be contacted to arrange pickup or delivery.
To place an order, visit https://www.brightontreeprogram.com
If you have questions, contact Adam Rhodebeck, City of Brighton Forester, at ajrhodebeck@brightonco.gov or 303-655-2048.
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