Initiative replaces trees lost following July tornado
The City of Neenah has announced a structured, multi-year plan to restore public trees damaged or removed following the July 27, 2026, tornado. More than 400 public trees were damaged or removed throughout the community, affecting parks, street terraces and other public spaces. As a Tree City USA community for more than 40 years, Neenah is committed to rebuilding a stronger, healthier and more resilient urban forest.
“Trees are an important part of Neenah’s identity, environmental health and quality of life,” said Michael Kading, Director of Neenah Parks & Recreation. “This plan will help us thoughtfully restore the public tree canopy while accounting for the needs of residents still repairing their homes and properties.”
Replanting will be completed in phases during the next one to five years. Priority will be given to the neighborhoods and public corridors most affected by the storm. Tree species will be selected by the City with an emphasis on climate resilience, disease resistance, species diversity and long-term canopy value. More than half of the City’s current public trees are maple trees; urban forestry best practices recommend that no single tree species make up more than 10% of a healthy tree population.
The tentative replanting schedule includes:
|
Timing |
Location |
Estimated Trees |
|
September 2026 |
Riverside Park |
Approximately 35 |
|
Spring 2027 |
Riverside Park |
Approximately 70 |
|
Late summer/fall 2027 |
Doty, Kimberly Point and Fresh Air Parks |
Approximately 80 |
|
Fall 2028 |
Street terraces |
Approximately 160 |
Street-tree replacement is planned for fall 2028 to give residential property owners time to repair homes, garages and yards without the added concern of protecting newly planted trees or accommodating planting contractors.
The City’s tree assessment work will continue for an estimated six to 12 months. Crews will identify trees that require safety pruning or removal, including trees that may appear sound now but could show storm-related failure as they leaf out next spring.
To focus staff capacity and funding on storm recovery, the City is suspending its Trees for the Living and Private Street Tree programs for at least two years, effective immediately.
Residents can support the recovery by contributing to public tree replacement, participating in future volunteer planting days and attending community forestry events. The recommended donation for a public tree is $500, which is approximately the cost to purchase, plant, and provide first-year care for a public tree. Donations may be made through the City’s online donation portal or in person at the Parks & Recreation Office, 211 Walnut Street, Neenah.
Trees contribute to cleaner air, reduced stormwater runoff, cooler temperatures, wildlife habitat and more attractive public spaces. They also support property values, recreation, community well-being and Neenah’s overall quality of life.
For more information about the tree replanting plan or to make a donation, contact the City of Neenah Parks & Recreation Department at 920-886-6060.