Growing Shade Longmont

Boulder County’s Residential Urban Forestry Program

Growing Shade is a pilot program that plants and cares for new trees in disproportionately impacted communities. By expanding tree canopy, Growing Shade reduces extreme heat, improves air quality and public health, and makes our communities better prepared for climate change.

In 2025, Growing Shade will plant approximately 100 new trees on residential properties in Longmont’s Loomiller and Westpoint neighborhoods. Growing Shade is designed to be a scalable, equity-centered model that may expand to other communities, starting in 2026.

Growing Shade is a partnership between Boulder County OSCAR, the City of Longmont, the Tree Trust, and the Longmont Neighborhood Group Leaders Association.

Urban forests are a climate solution

From cooling urban centers and soaking up flood waters, to building more pleasant communities, trees have many climate benefits.

1. Healthy trees create shade that helps keep neighborhoods cooler.
2. Robust root systems and leafy coverage can limit the severity of damage from heavy rain events, including flooding.
3. Trees are linked with happier and safer communities, decrease vehicle speed, provide shelter for wildlife, and even increase property values.

Urban Tree Canopy Assessment

In 2024, Boulder County analyzed existing tree coverage and opportunities for expansion across our community. The Urban Tree Canopy Assessment highlighted areas within the county with the greatest need for tree planting and set a target for 25% tree canopy coverage by 2050.  

Growing Shade is a program to help achieve this canopy coverage goal.

Program Details

Location: Northwest Longmont

In 2025, Growing Shade will plant approximately 100 new trees on residential properties in Longmont’s Loomiller and Westpoint neighborhoods.

Program Timeline

• August and September: Program launch, community outreach and participant sign ups
• Late September: Tree pick up event and planting

Ongoing Tree Support

Trees need ongoing care to thrive, grow and provide shade. The Growing Shade Program will support property owners in providing their newly planted trees with the care they need.

• The Tree Trust will conduct tree wellness checks twice per year for three years, monitoring planting success and collecting data.
• Residents will receive tree care reminders and resources, including:
  • General watering tips and seasonal reminders
  • When to install or remove tree wrap
  • Extra care during droughts or extreme weather
  • Ability to ask questions to the Tree Trust and chat with other participating residents.
• Workshops will be offered on general and resident-requested tree care topics.