With emerald ash borer causing widespread devastation, locals a year ago purchased more than 18,500 trees through Mower Soil & Water Conservation District’s annual program.
With 18,577 in tree sales overall, 2025 was Mower SWCD’s biggest year since 2008 when it sold about 25,000 trees. This recent uptick in tree sales likely is driven by Mower County losing thousands of ash trees in recent years due to emerald ash borer (EAB).
Mower SWCD’s 2026 program now has a tree list available with at least another 18,000 trees.
Residents on Mower SWCD’s mailing list should receive an order form soon via postal mail or email, and online orders can be made now through the district’s website – mowerswcd.org – and at its office at 1408 21st Ave. N.W. in Austin.
“Last year, our program sold out of trees really quickly so people should make sure to place their order sooner than later,” said Micah Peterson, a Mower SWCD technician who oversees the program and designs windbreaks.
Mower SWCD again will have tree orders ready for pickup April 23–24 on the west side of the Runnings store in Austin. Letters will be sent in early April with pickup dates and times to all who placed an order.
Bundles of bareroot trees and shrubs all are sold in bundles of 25, except for the common purple lilac sold in bundles of 10. Five types of container-grown evergreen trees are sold individually in 2-gallon pots.
Hackberry, available in bundles of 25, is a new addition this year; otherwise, the tree list has remained the same. The program also sells tree mats with staples and tree shelters with stakes; a tree planter is available to rent for $35 per day.
Mower SWCD has a limited supply of each type of tree and shrub, and staff take orders on a first-come, first-serve basis. Payment is due in full at the time of the order.
Cost-share contracts are available for windbreaks or shelterbelts designed and approved by Mower SWCD, and the trees must be ordered through Mower SWCD’s program. Under the contracts, landowners can get 50 percent cost-share up to $1,000 on their tree order, which must total at least $500 in total costs.
Windbreaks are linear plantings of trees and shrubs designed to slow wind to create a better environment for people, livestock, soil, crops and wildlife. They are designed to provide environmental, economic and community benefits.
Only limited quantities will be available after Feb. 28; order cancellations will not be accepted after that date. All orders must be placed by April 1 with Mower SWCD.
Landowners who have questions or want help planning a windbreak can contact Micah at Mower SWCD at micah@mowerdistrict.org or 507–460–4598.
