Author Archives: cgardemann

Overview August 10, 2020 is a date that is lodged in the minds of many Iowans. In just 45 minutes, some 670,000 trees—roughly 70% of the existing tree canopy of Cedar Rapids—were destroyed,Continue reading “Stop, Collaborate, and Listen: A Framework for Public-Private Partnerships”

The Case for Green Responsibility Corporate sustainability commitments are no longer a differentiator, but a baseline expectation for many employees. Employees want to work for companies whose values align withContinue reading “Built to Last: Demonstrating Corporate Leadership and Green Responsibility”

We are excited to announce the individuals elected to join the Board of Directors for 2026 that will help us in the Trees Forever mission of planting a better tomorrow.Continue reading “Meet the Board Members Joining Trees Forever in 2026!”

Trees Forever completed tree planting projects in 91 unique communities across Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin in 2025. Together, we were able to organize thousands of volunteers and granted funding forContinue reading “Trees Forever Partnered with 91 Communities to Complete 170 Projects in 2025!”

Once upon a time, Iowa’s landscape was lush with trees. Central Iowa alone boasted a 20% tree canopy: a vital green infrastructure that shaded our communities, cleaned our air, andContinue reading “Planting a Legacy – One Million Trees for Central Iowa’s Future”

On a hot October day, community truly came full circle in Madison, Illinois. James and Jermaine Buckels, co-founders of the youth mentoring nonprofit Onward and Upward, returned to the neighborhoodContinue reading “Community Tree Planting Comes Full Circle”

One Million Trees Central Iowa is an initiative focused on planting, protecting, and advocating for policy to reach the goal of increasing the tree canopy in Polk County and theContinue reading “Join the One Million Trees Central Iowa Movement!”

The 2020 derecho left thousands of homes uninhabitable and destroyed over 670,000 trees in Cedar Rapids alone, transforming the landscape overnight on both public and private properties. For the residentsContinue reading “Rebuilding Canopies at Plaza East”

Trees Forever organized thousands of volunteers and granted funding for environmental projects, while also partnering with municipalities to plant and care for public trees.   According to Michelle Beisker, CEO ofContinue reading “Trees Forever planted with 112 communities in 2024!”