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Trade-a-Tree

BPUB's Trade-a-Tree Program provides free replacement trees to protect power lines and keep our community green.

Free
Free Trees

Replacement tree at no cost

17+
Native Species

Tree options to choose from

100%
Safer Lines

Reduced outage risk

When a tree in your yard creates a safety concern with power lines, BPUB removes it and provides a free replacement tree selected for its natural beauty and lower height—so it won't interfere with power lines as it grows.

How it works

1

We identify qualifying trees

BPUB crews identify trees growing directly under primary voltage power lines that pose a safety or reliability concern.

2

Tree removal & cleanup

BPUB and the City of Brownsville safely remove the tree and clear all debris from your property.

3

You choose your new tree

Select a replacement tree from our approved list and choose where you'd like it planted in your yard.

4

We plant your tree

During fall planting season, we mark utilities, stake the location, and plant your new tree. You care for it from there.

Is my tree eligible?

Diagram showing primary vs secondary power lines

Only trees growing directly under primary voltage power lines qualify for this program. Trees near secondary (lower) lines are not eligible.

The diagram shows the difference between primary lines (higher voltage, at the top of the pole) and secondary lines (lower, closer to homes). Only trees interfering with primary lines are eligible for replacement.

Choose your replacement tree

Different trees grow to different heights. Select a group based on where you can plant in your yard relative to the power line.

Small Trees

Can be planted anywhere in yard

Anywhere
Brasil
Brasil
Crape Myrtle
Crape Myrtle
Huisache
Huisache
Texas Persimmon
Texas Persimmon
Pindo Palm
Pindo Palm
Weeping Bottlebrush
Weeping Bottlebrush
Wild Olive
Wild Olive

Frequently asked questions

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