Free tree guards being offered by the Decorah Tree Board

The Decorah Tree Board is offering free tree guards while the supply lasts.

The guards are made of sturdy plastic and are wrapped around the trunks of the trees, providing a barrier that discourages deer from rubbing and rabbits from eating the bark.

To request tree guards, contact the Tree Board by e-mail at treeboard@decorahia.org.

The tree guards are only available for trees planted in boulevards along Decorah streets.  Property owners can also make their own tree guards using hardware cloth, chicken wire, or fencing material. Deer rubbing usually occurs at a height of 1 to 4 feet, so homemade guards should extend to a height of at least 4 feet. When fabricating a guard, remember that rabbits can climb on snowbanks and eat the bark as far as they can reach.

Please contact the Decorah Street Department at (563) 382-2157 or Decorah City Hall at (563) 382-3651 with any questions.