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2026 Invasive Trade In Program is currently open!
As of 3/20/26, any further Columbus resident applications will be reviewed and added to the waiting list for this year.
ABOUT THIS PROGRAM
Residents of participating communities can remove an invasive tree or shrub and get a reimbursement towards replacing it with a new native tree or shrub. With this program, we want residents to learn about and remove invasive plants in our communities and encourage them to plant new native trees and shrubs instead.Thank you to the City of New Albany who helped us pilot this program in 2024. In 2026, we are excited to offer this program for another year with more participating communities!
THE PROBLEM WITH INVASIVE PLANTS
Invasive plants are non-native, aggressive plants that take over natural areas and push out native species. Invasive species are detrimental to our woodlands and natural areas. Although an invasive plant might not take over your yard, invasive plants easily spread to nearby natural areas via humans, wind, and wildlife. Without native plants, many pollinators and wildlife simply cannot survive. Furthermore, since 2010, i
nvasive species have cost North America $26 billion per year in harm. This economic harm has a significant impact on the agricultural industry in particular. Many invasive plants spread unknowingly from home gardens to other properties and natural areas. By removing invasive plants, you are helping to slow the spread and improve our environment.
These 5 plants are the most problematic invasive plants in Central Ohio that we want removed:
Click on each name above to learn more about each invasive plant and the best removal practices.
PARTICIPATING COMMUNITIES
For 2026, residents in the following municipalities are eligible for the following reimbursements:
- Bexley $100
- Grove City $100
- Canal Winchester $100
- Reynoldsburg $100
- Gahanna $100
- Columbus $100
- Grandview Heights $100
- Hilliard $100
- New Albany $500
- Upper Arlington $150
- Westerville $100 - Callery/Bradford Pears Only
These are
first come, first served, very limited quantity, and reimbursement only. If you plan on participating, please reach out before doing it to confirm availability!
If eligible, you must follow these steps to get the reimbursement:
Part I: Application- Complete the program overview. At the end of the overview, a link to the program application will be available. You must live in a participating municipality according to the Franklin County Auditor. We will check your tax district and check your invasive you wish to remove to verify that you are eligible. Have a picture of your invasive plant handy when you submit the form.
- Receive approval and next steps email from Franklin Soil and Water to proceed. We will notify you via email within 2-3 weeks of submittal. Check you spam folder!
Part 2: Take Action- Remove at least one of your approved invasive trees or shrubs. To help with removal costs, approved applicants are eligible to receive a 10% off discount code to be used through Davey for invasive removal services. Take pictures of your removed invasive plants.
- Buy and plant at least one new NATIVE tree or shrub on your property. Must be native or a cultivar of a native such as 'Winter Red' Winterberry - Ilex verticillata 'Winter Red'. However, no invasive or non-natives will be accepted. Once planted in the ground, take pictures.
- Submit your pictures and receipts to Franklin Soil & Water who will then mail you a reimbursement check. Receipt(s) must be a legitimate receipt, meaning a receipt or invoice that is itemized, printed or digital, and from a legitimate retailer, vendor, contractor, or store. No cash under the table, Venmo exchanges, etc. Your reimbursement may only go towards the subtotal of the price of the native tree(s) or shrub(s).
Questions? Contact Franklin Soil & Water at 614-486-9613 or
CommunityBackyards@franklinswcd.org.