Learn more about Natural Resources Districts Tree Program in this video from NET
Tree Planting
Trees provide important benefits such as protecting homes and livestock from wind and snow, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs, preventing soil erosion, and providing wildlife habitat. The Upper Loup NRD offers tree program services including: planning, planting, weed barrier installation or weed control, and drip irrigation.
A well-planned drip irrigation system can have a tremendous impact on a young tree’s survival and growth. The systems improve tree survival rate by providing water to the seedlings during the hot, dry summer. The systems also allow for more efficient watering of seedlings by dripping the water where and when the plants need it, with little or no evaporation and virtually no runoff. The cost share for drip irrigation systems is only provided for those placed on electric wells.
The Upper Loup NRD sells trees to anyone within the district. Trees may be purchased as hand plants (planted by the purchaser) or machine plants (planted by the NRD). Seedlings are two years old and approximately 12" to 18" tall and are offered bare root or a few species are offered potted. Trees and shrubs purchased through ULNRD may not be re-sold with the roots still attached.
Hand-plants
Hand-plant trees are mainly purchased for small windbreaks, ornamental purposes or as replants. The NRD does not assist cooperators with planting these trees. They are made available for pickup at the ULNRD office in Thedford or arrangements can be made for delivery.
To Order Hand-Plant Trees: use our online order form, download an order form in PDF format, or request an order form from the NRD by stopping in or calling our office.
Machine Plants
The ULNRD provides machine planting service for plantings of 200 or more trees and/or shrubs. The NRD and NRCS will help you develop a tree planting plan free of charge. This includes determining how many trees or shrubs you will need, the best location for your planting and the species that fit your specific needs. If you would like a species that is not listed contact the ULNRD. Some species may be available at the forest that are not listed.
Cost Share
Tree planting may qualify for either state or federal cost-share. For more information contact the NRD at 308-645-2250
Tree Species
The NRD purchases the majority of its stock from Bessey Nursery in Halsey, Nebraska. Species availability may vary from year to year. To view and learn more about the types of conservation trees visit Conservation Trees for Nebraska Guide