Monroe County Conservation Tree & Shrub Program: Now Open to Landowners for 50th Year
For 50 years, the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District has hosted its successful tree and shrub program for landowners, proving that conservation doesn’t have to be complicated. Planting native trees and shrubs at home can be a simple but highly beneficial way to support local conservation efforts, including providing wildlife food and shelter, erosion control, stormwater management, natural windbreaks, climate resilience, and more. More than 27,000 native and naturalized trees and shrubs were distributed, fulfilling more than 640 orders from residents last year alone and supporting local conservation efforts.
The 2026 species list includes almost 40 different species, including hardwoods, bare-root conifers, transplants, shrubs, flowering plants, and variety packs. In addition to trees and shrubs, the program offers other products ideal for conservation projects and promoting ecological stewardship, including bat and bluebird houses, seed mixes, tree protection items, and more. Through this program, the District supports conservation efforts to enhance and protect natural resources throughout Monroe County, while helping residents do the same in their communities today for future generations.
Seven new items are available this year. As great conservation species, these trees and shrubs provide numerous benefits, from wildlife shelter and food to enhanced property aesthetics. New this year are Concolor Fir, Northern Pecan, American Plum, Winterberry, False Indigo, Coralberry, and Black Chokeberry. Popular best-sellers like Streamco Willow, Red Maple, and the Edible Fruit-Pack all returned this year. The species in this program are the best choices for supporting conservation efforts, so check out all the benefits of these and our other selections by visiting the online catalog at https://monroecountyswcd.org/tree-shrub-program/.
Due to limited supply, pre-order by March 6, 2026, by mail, email, or online ordering. Pre-ordered plants can be picked up at the Monroe County ecopark on April 23 or 24, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will also be a first-come, first-served overstock sale on April 25, 2026, from 9 to 11 a.m. Please note that the tree species typically come as young, small-rooted plants – full-grown trees are not available through this program. Once planted, the small seedlings should take root and grow leaves in the spring.
Those interested in this program can find the order form and full color catalog at https://monroecountyswcd.org/tree-shrub-program/. Those with questions or who’d like a form sent to them may contact the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District at 585-753-7380, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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