Governor Polis Visits Nursery Growing Colorado’s Next Generation of Forests

FORT COLLINS - Today, Governor Polis joined state forestry leaders to see how the Colorado State Forest Service's new seedling program is helping Coloradans rebuild forests after a devastating wildfire season. The CSFS Nursery, located on Colorado State University's Foothills Campus, has undergone a major renovation and modernization to expand the state's capacity for forest restoration and conservation.

"I visited the nursery before renovation, during renovations, and now I'm thrilled to visit the new and improved nursery. Coloradans depend on healthy forests for clean air, good-paying jobs and the outdoor lifestyle we love. Our forests are worth protecting and this nursery is growing the trees that will bring our forests back stronger for the next generation," said Governor Polis.

Supported by more than  $15 million in combined state and federal investment, the new facility includes expanded greenhouses and shade houses, improved irrigation systems, and a new headhouse that will modernize and mechanize seeding operations. The upgraded nursery is expected to produce one to two million container seedlings annually, helping to meet the growing demand for Colorado-grown trees and shrubs used to restore forests, protect watersheds, improve wildlife habitats, and support recovery following wildfires and other natural disasters.

The CSFS provides professional forestry assistance, wildfire mitigation expertise, and outreach and education to help landowners and communities achieve their forest management goals. The CSFS is a service and outreach agency of Colorado State University's Office of Engagement and Extension and provides staffing for the Division of Forestry within the Colorado Department of Natural Resources.

In 2023, Governor Polis visited the Nursery to sign House Bill 23-1060 into law, which provided crucial funding to modernize the nursery and its seed storage system. This law built on the Polis administration's previous efforts with the Colorado Department of Natural Resources to upgrade the tree nursery.

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