The City of Aurelia is set to receive a boost in greenery thanks to a Trees for Kids grant awarded by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
The $2,500 grant will fund the planting of 10 new trees along the city’s right-of-way, aiming to revitalize public spaces and involve local youth in environmental stewardship.
The initiative was spearheaded by Aurelia’s Hometown Pride Committee, which surveyed residents earlier this year to identify eligible planting sites. Many of the selected properties had previously lost trees due to the 2021 tornado or the emerald ash borer infestation.
This community-driven effort brings together the City of Aurelia, Hometown Pride, the Alta-Aurelia Key Club, the Aurelia Kiwanis Club, and local volunteers. As part of the Trees for Kids program, youth participation is a key component—Alta-Aurelia Key Club members will help plant the trees.
The public is invited to join the planting event at 4 p.m. next Tuesday, Sept. 30, outside the Aurelia Community Center. Organizers say the project reflects a broader mission to build pride, leadership, and long-term vitality in the community.
For more information, email aureliahometownpride@gmail.com or follow Aurelia Hometown Pride on Facebook.
