Vacaville offers a case for trees

The City of Vacaville has launched a Treebate Program, a shade tree rebate pilot program.

Funded through the Measure M Council District Benefit Program under the COV Connect umbrella, the Treebate Program protects quality of life and promotes community engagement.

Vacaville residents may be eligible to receive a $50 rebate for the purchase and planting of select trees. This pilot program will run through June 1 or until funding is exhausted on a first come, first served basis.

The City's goal is to improve Vacaville's urban tree canopy. Mature trees provide benefits including:

• Increased home value.

• Protection against erosion and storm water runoff.

• Cleaner air.

• Over time, reduced energy costs due to shade.

• Helps the environment. Residents interested in taking advantage of the Treebate Program must meet these criteria:

• The tree must be on the approved Master Tree List and a minimum size of 5gallons.

• The tree must be planted on a Vacaville resident’s private property.

• The original sales receipt along with a photo of the tree must be included with the rebate application as proof of purchase.

• The property owner will be responsible for all future tree maintenance.

The maximum rebate allowed is $50 per resident. Rebate checks will typically be issued within two to three weeks, upon receipt of a completed application and proof of purchase. Residents should refer to the resources listed on the city's Treebate Program website, CityofVacaville.gov/TreebateProgram, for tree care maintenance, safety measures and to avoid future conflicts with utility lines, concrete work and other landscaping.

For more information, email Treebate@cityofvacaville.com.