Thanks to the Ten Free Trees program, the Village of Julian and the Julian Preservation Committee has received seven trees for the village-wide arboretum project. Ten Free Trees is an effort of the Nebraska Forest Service (NFS) and the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum (NSA).
In 2024, representatives of the Village of Julian and the NFS completed an inventory of the public trees located in Julian. Many of the private trees were also included. Julian representatives are working to establish a village- wide arboretum with a variety of native and non-native species of trees. The seven trees received from the Ten Free Trees program were planted in the park where the school once stood, at the Welcome to Julian sign and at the Community Building. Following planting, residents celebrated with a potluck picnic at the park.
Despite providing a wide range of social, economic and environmental benefits, most Nebraska community forests have been in steady and sometimes dramatic decline. Many challenges contribute, including extreme weather, insects, disease and lack of diversity. The emerald ash borer is the latest major challenge added to the list.
