Monroe County launches its annual Conservation Tree & Shrub Program to help residents support local environmental stewardship

Monroe County, New York – The Monroe County Conservation Tree & Shrub Program is once again inviting residents to take part in a long-running effort that blends practical land care with environmental stewardship, offering affordable plants and supplies that help strengthen local landscapes while protecting natural resources.

Organized by the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District, the annual program makes tree seedlings, shrubs, and conservation tools available to landowners across the county. The goal is simple but wide-reaching: encourage people to plant native and naturalized species that reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, support wildlife, and add long-term value to private property.

For many participants, the program serves as an accessible entry point into conservation. Establishing windbreaks, restoring wooded areas, and creating habitat corridors can feel overwhelming, but the district emphasizes that conservation does not have to be complicated or costly. Even a small planting project can deliver lasting benefits for both people and the environment.

This year’s offering includes a diverse selection designed to meet a variety of needs. Residents can choose from 24 bare-root tree and shrub species, five wildlife and conservation multi-packs, a live stake deciduous shrub, an herbaceous flowering plant, and several seed mixes. The catalog also includes practical accessories such as tree tubes, bird houses, and other items that help young plants survive and thrive after planting.

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The scale of the program reflects its popularity and impact. Last year alone, more than 27,000 native and naturalized trees and shrubs were distributed through over 640 individual orders. Those plants are now growing across Monroe County, helping stabilize soil, manage stormwater, provide shelter and food for wildlife, and build resilience against changing weather patterns.

The 2026 species list continues to expand, now featuring nearly 40 different options. These include hardwoods, conifers, transplants, shrubs, flowering plants, and curated variety packs tailored to specific conservation goals. The district also continues to offer products that support ecological stewardship projects, such as bat houses, bluebird houses, and seed blends designed for pollinators and native grasses.

Seven new items are being introduced this year, each selected for its conservation value and adaptability. New additions include Concolor Fir, Northern Pecan, American Plum, Winterberry, False Indigo, Coralberry, and Black Chokeberry. These species offer a range of benefits, from improving habitat diversity to enhancing visual appeal throughout the seasons.

At the same time, several popular best-sellers are returning due to strong demand. Streamco Willow, Red Maple, and the Edible Fruit-Pack once again headline the list, reflecting continued interest in plants that combine ecological function with practical or aesthetic value. The district notes that all species included in the program were chosen specifically for their ability to support conservation outcomes in local conditions.

Orders must be placed by March 6, 2026, and supplies are limited. Residents can submit orders by mail, email, or online through the district’s website. Because quantities are capped, early ordering is encouraged to ensure access to preferred species.

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Plant distribution will take place over two days, April 23 and April 24, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pickups will be held at the Monroe County ecopark, located at 10 Avion Drive in Rochester. Participants are reminded that the trees and shrubs are sold as young seedlings or transplants rather than fully grown trees. Once planted, these small starts are designed to establish quickly and leaf out as spring progresses.

For those who miss the ordering deadline, the district will host an overstock sale later in the spring. This first-come, first-served event is scheduled for April 27, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., also at the Monroe County ecopark. Availability during the overstock sale will depend on remaining inventory.

Behind the program is a broader mission that has guided the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District for five decades. For 50 years, the district has used the Tree & Shrub Program to promote hands-on conservation, helping residents protect natural resources today while investing in healthier ecosystems for future generations.

Those interested in participating can find the full-color catalog and order forms on the district’s website at www.monroecountyswcd.org. Additional information is available by contacting the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District directly at (585) 753-7380 during regular business hours.