What Is It?

Boise is known as the City of Trees, but that legacy is not guaranteed. As our community grows and the climate continues to shift, planting and caring for trees has never been more important.

Trees offer more than beauty for our neighborhoods. They clean our air, cool our homes, protect our waterways, and help bring people together.

The City of Trees Challenge is a call to action: to protect our urban forest, invest in climate resilience, and create a greener, healthier Treasure Valley for future generations.

Launched on Arbor Day 2020 with the City of Boise and Council President Elaine Clegg, the City of Trees Challenge set an ambitious goal:

One tree for every household in Boise

One forest seedling for every resident planted in Idaho’s forests by 2030

In just five years, the Challenge has taken root as a model of local and national climate leadership.

Our History

By Spring 2024, we proudly reached our first milestone—235,000 forest seedlings planted in the Boise National Forest—thanks to the generous support of the Arbor Day Foundation and The Nature Conservancy in Idaho

Now, we’re growing stronger in Boise neighborhoods through the Boise Tree Captains Program, advancing tree equity throughout the Treasure Valley and offering free trees for homes in the City of Boise.

Urban Trees Planted

19,166

Forest Seedlings Planted

Each year brings more trees, more volunteers, and more progress toward a healthier, more resilient City of Trees.

235,000

“This is the BEST program. I live on the bench and many trees are getting old up here, so it is fantastic that I can replant some trees for the next generations. I hope this program will continue. The more trees the better.”

— Melanie, 2023 Tree Recipient

Hear What Locals Are Saying:

“I love TVCN! I live on a nearly tree-free street and could not have afforded these trees without your support. I live alone, with a disability, so have deeply appreciated the help planting. Thank you!”

— Britt, 2023 Tree Recipient