Shade SLP Plus
NOTICE: Shade SLP Plus funds for ash tree removal and injection have been fully allocated. If you qualify for the program and are interested in tree planting only, limited funds are still available. If you have an ash tree that requires removal, you may qualify for Hennepin County’s tree removal and replacement program. Visit beheardhennepin.org/urban-community-forestry for more information.
Shade SLP Plus is a full-service program created to help residential property owners in environmental justice (EJ) communities in St. Louis Park preserve, remove and/or re-establish tree canopy on private property. This work has become increasingly important, as more and more ash trees are infested with the invasive emerald ash borer beetle (EAB).
View the video below or click on the tabs below to learn more about eligibility, program services and how to apply.
Note: If your property address does not fall within an EJ community for the purposes of this program, the city has other resources and programs available to help you plant and care for your trees. As always, tree consultations are free for any St. Louis Park resident. Visit the trees page for more information.
Eligibility
Property owners must confirm their residential address falls within an eligible environmental justice (EJ) community within St. Louis Park before being approved for tree services under this program.
Refer to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources eligible areas map to determine eligibility for this program.
If your property is not eligible for the Shade SLP Plus program, the city has other resources and programs available to help you plant and care for your trees. Visit the trees page for more information.
Available services
Eligible property owners can apply for the following services at no cost to them.
Tree consultation (required before other services can be provided)
Upon request, a licensed tree inspector will visit your property to answer questions about your tree(s) and provide recommendations for maintenance, planting and/or other tree services that qualify for grant funding.
Ash tree removal
Only trees infested with emerald ash borer (EAB) will qualify for removal. A licensed tree inspector will confirm your tree is an ash tree and is infested with EAB. The city's contractor will remove the tree. Each ash tree removed must be replaced by a newly planted tree (see tree planting section below). Stump grinding is not included in this program.
Ash tree injections
A licensed tree inspector will determine if your tree is an ash tree and if it is a good candidate for EAB preventive injection. The city’s contractor will perform the injection.
Tree planting
A licensed tree inspector will assist with tree selection, placement and quantity needed. The city’s contractor will plant the tree(s). An ash tree does not have to be removed to qualify for tree planting.
How to participate
If you determine your property is eligible and you are interested in participating in the program, follow the steps below.
- Complete the Shade SLP Plus interest form to let us know you’re interested in an initial consultation.
- A licensed tree inspector with the city will contact you to schedule a consultation at your property.
- After the initial consultation, you will receive an acceptance form from the city detailing tree services to be performed on your property. Please complete, sign and return this form to confirm you accept the proposed work. A signed form must be received before any tree work can be scheduled.
Note: This is a federally funded state grant program, and while we try to approve all projects, funds are limited. Projects will be prioritized in the order completed acceptance forms are received until grant dollars are gone.
This program is made possible through a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the USDA Forest Service. The City of St. Louis Park is an equal opportunity provider.