Free tree-planting program takes root in Waltham 

Trees are vital for the well-being of urban communities, particularly in the summer. The shade provided by trees cools ground temperatures, while the trees themselves improve air quality, decrease the risk of flooding and serve as habitats for native species.

Despite the importance of trees in the urbanscape, several Waltham neighborhoods lack a significant presence of them. Warrendale has a tree cover of 30%, the South Side has 20%, and areas of Cedarwood have as low as 18% tree cover. 

A citywide initiative seeks to boost those figures.

Waltham residents can apply for a tree to be planted on their private property at no cost to the homeowner through the Tree Setback Planting Program. The program allows trees in the community to “survive, thrive and achieve their full potential,” according to the city’s online description of the program. 

According to Tree City USA, an organization that “helps communities demonstrate and promote their commitment to a greener place to call home,” increased greenery in cities improves the local quality of life and helps fight climate change by taking in carbon dioxide, a harmful greenhouse gas. 

The City of Waltham is a member of Tree City USA.

Kevin Thompson, Waltham’s tree warden, said the city helps fund the tree planting, noting that the trees are more likely to survive in yards than other spots. 

“It’s better to plant [trees] on a person’s property than in the harsh environment” of public ways, he said, explaining that trees planted on private property often have increased root space, less interference with utilities and better soil conditions. The trees also often enjoy more care from residents than the city could provide.  

The Tree Setback Planting Program is one of several tree-related initiatives in Waltham. 

The city also received a $100,000 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation that covers the cost of planting more than 140 trees along streets in the Cedarwood neighborhood. 

The city also plans to plant trees along Lexington Street, which has been subject to ongoing construction. Thompson said this will help rebuild the street’s tree population, which had been thinned during utility work.

Waltham residents can apply for the Tree Setback Planting Program by completing an agreement and release form on the City of Waltham’s website. Applicants must provide contact information and a description of the proposed location, including the footprint of the house and nearby utility lines, fences or other plants. 

City officials analyze each applicant’s area to help determine the best tree for each location. 

Each tree stays under the jurisdiction of the tree warden for one year after the planting, although residents are responsible for watering and maintaining trees during that period.