Tree Trooper: Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Training?
Our training is designed to accommodate your schedule with an asynchronous format, allowing you to engage at your own convenience. To learn more about this flexible learning style, simply fill out our interest form, and we'll provide you with all the details you need.
What is the cost to have trees planted?
For most sites, a copay of $25 per tree is required. If the trees are being planted by a contractor, a copay of $45 per tree is required. Large orders may be eligible for discounted rates. Your Tree Trooper will provide your community with the exact cost of an installation prior to finalizing your tree application.
Properties in priority areas will qualify for fully subsidized plantings. To check if your community qualifies for free or subsidized trees, please see the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Urban Tree Grant Eligibility Map.
When will the trees be planted?
We are now planning projects for Fall 2024 and Spring 2025. Trees are typically planted from about September-November and April-May.
What Kinds Of Trees Are planted?
The Tree Trooper Program plants diverse stands of trees and shrubs native to the Chesapeake Bay region that will thrive in a changing environment. These resilient species are likely to withstand new pests and diseases and increasing rainfall and temperatures. These resilient trees will be approximately 4-6 feet tall upon installation and are typically in 5-7 gallon containers. Learn more here.
Who will plant the trees?
Ideally, Tree Troopers and volunteer groups will plant the trees. In some cases, Tree Troopers and WSA will work with pre-qualified tree contractors for installation. Communities may opt for contractor installation for an additional fee.
How many trees can I get?
Tree Troopers will be trained to determine the type and quantity of trees for their unique community site(s). Most sites will receive a minimum of 20 trees, to be planted in a localized area (for example, a community may choose to install 10 trees on community property and 10 trees on adjacent residential parcels). Some sites such as schools or congregations may qualify to have as few as 10 trees installed.
Who will maintain the trees after they are planted?
Tree Troopers and property owners should discuss a plan for maintenance before any trees are planted. The property owner will be responsible for maintaining their new trees and are given a Maintenance Plan to reference in the first three years of the trees life. The Tree Trooper will want to stay in contact with the property owner to be available for questions, and to check on the status of the tree.
What if my community doesn’t have a tree trooper or I Cannot attend training?
Ideally, your community will have a Tree Trooper trained in the 2024 season. To ensure easy access to the trees, it is recommended that at least one person from your community applies to become trained as a Tree Trooper.
If that isn’t possible, your community can still apply for trees and available Tree Troopers will be assigned to your community on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please complete our RePlant Interest Form here to express your interest in receiving trees.
WHAT IF I AM NOT COMFORTABLE WITH ONLINE PROGRAMS FOR TRAINING?
If you are not comfortable with online platforms, we will do our best to walk you through the use of the online tools beforehand. Please contact Faith Waaramaa with any questions or concerns regarding access to the training. We are here to work with you in any way we can to guide you through this process.
What kind of person makes a good tree trooper?
Residents of Anne Arundel County or the City of Annapolis who are motivated, organized, and excited about trees should apply to become Tree Troopers. Tree Troopers do not need to be physically able to plant trees but must be able to direct others in the community to do so.
How can my community apply for trees?
All Anne Arundel County and Annapolis communities (excluding Fort Meade) are invited to apply for trees. Because funding is finite, applications will be reviewed and prioritized based on community need and existing tree canopy.
how do I know if my community qualifies?
Tree Trooper Community Trees are primarily intended to be planted in groups of 20 or more.
Can I plant trees if I’m not a tree trooper?
Absolutely! We will need volunteers across the county to help plant trees. To let us know you’re interested in volunteering, please fill out this short Google form.