County Board Supports Youth-Involved Tree Project for Courthouse Grounds

Your support keeps truth alive in Decorah—donate to local news today! DECORAH — Winneshiek County Conservation Natural Resources Technician John Kraus and Supervisor Mark Faldet briefed county supervisors Monday on a courthouse landscaping plan that hinges on a state grant and the help of local fifth graders. Kraus said the county is applying to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources' Trees for Kids program, which offers up to $2,500 for youth-involved planting projects. "We've reached out to the fifth-grade teachers at Decorah Middle School, so they're on board," Kraus said. "If we were successful with this grant, they'd help plant the trees." The plan builds on earlier conversations about courthouse grounds improvements. Kraus said he submitted preliminary ideas before learning of the grant opportunity. He and Faldet have since walked the property twice, mapping potential planting locations. "I don't know that this is, by any means, our final draft," Kraus told the board, noting that locations could shift after an 811 utility check. The grant requires no matching funds, and Kraus said he hopes to source trees from a local garden center. Watering will be a priority in the first year, with both Kraus and Faldet committing to assist. "John has volunteered and I have volunteered to help water them for the first year at least to make sure they get a good bearing on that," Faldet said. Utility lines near some proposed planting spots prompted caution. Supervisors suggested alternatives such as smaller native trees, including hawthorn, or low-growing varieties like crabapple in sensitive areas. Supervisor Chair Dan Langreck proposed a resolution in support of the grant application, which passed unanimously. The board agreed the project should move forward only with grant funding and directed staff to proceed with the application and prepare a support letter. The Trees for Kids grant application is due at the end of August. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.