Romeoville launches six-year plan to plant 2,500 native trees

Over the next six years, the Village of Romeoville will implement a tree replacement program that aims to plant 2,500 native trees within village limits. The initiative includes both new plantings and replacements for invasive species that are either dying or pose an environmental risk. Trees will be planted in areas such as residential subdivisions, roadside right of ways, and village-owned properties where previous trees have been lost due to storms or damage.

The program is scheduled to begin this fall with the removal of 55 trees. In spring 2026, 470 trees will be planted across neighborhoods including Poplar Ridge, Heritage Place, Malibu Bay, Marquette Estates/Landing, and Lakewood Estates. The trees will be sourced locally from The Fields on Caton Farm.

“Native trees are better suited to grow in our soil and climate,” said Mayor Noak. “Non-native species can have fragile wood prone to breaking, causing a danger to the environment around them. This program not only beautifies Romeoville, but restores the balance of native trees that have grown in this area for generations.”

This effort is part of a broader conservation campaign by the Village of Romeoville focused on sustainability initiatives. These include encouraging residents to create Monarch butterfly waystations, promoting rain barrel use for water conservation, and supporting local events such as native plant sales by the Forest Preserve District of Will County and Will County Nature Foundation as well as monthly volunteer cleanup days at O’Hara Woods organized by the Conservation Foundation.