NIRPC Invasive Tree Replacement Program

Remove an approved invasive tree or woody plant (Callery/Bradford pear, tree of heaven, burning bush, or any woody invasive on the Indiana Invasive Species Council list) from your property, then plant a free native replacement tree on that same property.

• Property must be in the Little Calumet-Galien watershed map area
• Proof of removal: before and after photos (recent removals still qualify)
• Removal may be DIY or by an ISA-certified arborist; program does not pay for removal
• Replacement tree must be planted on the same property
• Species can be requested but are not guaranteed; while supplies last

1. 1Remove the invasive tree and take before and after photos
2. 2Submit the DNR survey/application linked on the NIRPC program page by the deadline (2026 deadline was March 1, 2026; later submissions accepted but preferred species less likely)
3. 3If awarded, attend a tree distribution event; a follow-up email confirms your time slot

2026 distribution events were May 1 (4-6 pm) and May 2 (10 am-12 pm), 2026 at NIRPC in Portage, IN

2026 application deadline March 1, 2026

• https://www.in.gov/nirpc/environment/communitree/invasive-species-replacement-program/ (official page)

Last checked October 17, 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.

Sow is not affiliated with any of these agencies or utilities. Amounts and rules change, often at the start of a fiscal year, so confirm the details on the official page before you start a project. How we research these programs