About the Conservation Tree Program

Since 1972, Nebraska’s NRDs have partnered with landowners to plant over 102 million trees statewide. At approximately $1.20 per seedling, and with cost-share programs available in many districts, these conservation trees provide immense benefits to people, wildlife, and the environment. They offer shade, shelter homes, reduce soil erosion, protect crops and livestock, support wildlife by providing food and cover, buffer noise, and add beauty to the landscape. 

As windbreaks mature, NRD foresters recommend landowners consider rehabilitating old windbreaks or planning new plantings. The NRD Conservation Tree Program provides an affordable way for landowners to safeguard their property. NRD staff and foresters collaborate with landowners to choose the best tree species, create planting plans, and, in many cases, even handle the planting.

For more information on the NRD Conservation Tree Program, visit www.nrdtrees.org.

Lower Elkhorn NRD Conservation Tree Program

Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) are now accepting orders for conservation tree seedlings for spring planting. The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District’s Conservation Tree Program offers a wide variety of seedlings and services to landowners interested in planting trees and shrubs for windbreaks, living snow fences, livestock protection, forest buffers, woodlots, and wildlife habitat. Orders are now open through February 20, 2026.  Call our office for more information at 402-371-7313 or visit your local NRCS office.

Conservation Tree Program Order Form

Cost-Share Forestry Programs

Drip Irrigation Cost Share

 

Machine Planting Service

  • There is a charge of $0.55 / seedling
  • There is a minimum planting charge of $275.00 per project
  • Not available for Small Acreage or Wildlife packages
  • For help with designing a tree planting plan, windbreak, contact Todd Stewart
  • If you’re interested in CRP plantings, contact your local NRCS office.

Coco Weed Guards

  • $45.00 plus tax for a bundle of 25 mats (must be ordered in lots of 25)
  • All natural, biodegradable weed control disc made of compressed coconut fibers
  • Provides improved watering efficiency by retaining moisture.
  • Porus material prevents the buildup of heat experienced with plastic discs.
  • Anticipated to last 2-3 years before gradually decomposing by year 5-6.
  • The LENRD does not offer an installation service for the mats.