A local effort to plant trees across the community over the next five years, called 1,000 Trees for Minot, kicks off today with a fundraising event at Prairie Sky Breads in downtown Minot.

The aim of 1,000 Trees for Minot is to support and expand existing wildlife habitat across the community, mitigate the effects of climate change and increased summer temperatures and severe weather events, save residents heating and cooling costs and enhance public spaces such as parks, trails and roads. Tree species will be selected to support local biodiversity and strengthen existing ecosystems.

Today’s kick off event will include a dine-to-donate pizza fundraiser and tree-shaped sugar cookies with frosting. Proceeds from those items will help fund the purchase and planting of trees over the next five years.

“Trees are more than just plants. They are an investment in the health and beauty of our community” said Tim Baumann, one of the effort’s two coordinators. “By strategically planting trees today, we create a more vibrant Minot for tomorrow.”

All Minot residents, businesses, and organizations are invited to participate in this project by donating to the 1,000 Trees for Minot Pass Through Fund at the Minot Area Community Foundation or by planting trees on private property and recording it with organizers on their Facebook pages. For gifts or memorials over $1,000, please contact the Minot Area Community Foundation and organizers. This effort will continue through September 2026.