For more than a century, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been at the forefront of reforestation efforts, supplying landowners with the seedlings needed to restore and sustain the state’s forests. Since the program’s inception in 1911, the DNR has distributed over 1.6 billion tree seedlings to private landowners, public lands, and conservation projects. This long-standing initiative has helped reverse deforestation trends, improve wildlife habitat, and protect the state’s natural resources for future generations. The DNR’s Reforestation Program operates through state tree nurseries that grow a variety of native species, including conifers like red pine and white spruce, as well as hardwoods such as oak, maple, and birch. Each year, millions of seedlings are cultivated and sold at low cost to landowners, municipalities, and conservation groups. The program also provides technical guidance from site preparation to planting techniques to ensure high survival rates and healthy forest growth. Reforestation in Wisconsin is more than just planting trees, it’s an investment in the state’s ecological and economic future. Healthy forests improve air and water quality, provide wildlife habitat, support the timber industry, and store carbon. In recent years, the program has seen remarkable success. In 2024 alone, Wisconsin planted over 10 million trees, contributing to global initiatives like the Trillion Trees Pledge. The DNR continues to innovate, experimenting with climate-resilient species and improving nursery technology to meet future challenges. Wisconsin residents can participate by ordering seedlings through the DNR’s annual sales, volunteering for community planting events, or incorporating tree plantings into private land management plans. The DNR’s website offers ordering information, planting guides, and seasonal tips for tree care!
Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land Conservation and
Land Information Department. For more information contact Lucas O’Brien, Forest County Land
Conservation Technician at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at