Forestry

The community's urban forest is a valuable natural resource that must be preserved and maintained to provide a better quality of life for present and future generations. Natural resource management priorities are placed in the following three main areas: preservation of existing natural resources, maintenance of existing natural resources, and the installation of new natural resources. Cottage Grove continues to implement management practices that will provide for a healthy and aesthetically pleasing urban forest. Public Works constantly monitors the health of our urban trees as existing and new insects and diseases occur.

Emerald Ash Borer

The City of Cottage Grove wants your help diversifying ur urban forest and minimizing the devastating impact of the Emerald Ash Borer in our City. Cottage Grove is currently in year 10 of 12 for the Emerald Ash Borer management plan and is asking residents with City-owned ash trees to voluntarily sign up for removal. 

Once signed up the City will remove the ash tree, depending on current resources available, and replace the tree with a two-inch diverse species at no cost to the resident. To register and have the opportunity to pick a new boulevard tree from an approved list, fill out the Voluntary Boulevard Emerald Ash Tree Removal Program Form.

Emerald Ash Borer Treatment (Privately Owned Trees)

The City of Cottage Grove has negotiated a city-wide discounted price with Rainbow Treecare Company to serve as a vendor partner in treating private ash trees. These injections will protect against Emerald Ash Borer for two years. Go to the Rainbow Treecare Company website for more information.

Licensed Tree Care Providers

Find licensed tree care providers in our Resource Directory.

Arbor Day Tree Giveaway!

May is Arbor month in Minnesota, and the City of Cottage Grove recognizes this with a tree giveaway for residents. Please check back for more information!