With increasingly hot days, shade on the playground is becoming more important. To provide more shade and align with the City of Loveland’s distinction as Tree City USA, former Principal John Berg spearheaded an effort to plant 25 trees at Laurene Edmondson Elementary School.
On May 8, 2026, the school hosted the City of Loveland’s annual Arbor Day celebration, which included a schoolwide assembly. Representatives from the City Parks and Recreation Department, the State Forestry Department, the mayor’s office, Larimer County, Platte River Power Authority, the school district, and more also attended the assembly. Students and staff learned about the benefits of trees. Officials read the Tree City USA dedication, and kindergarten students helped plant the ceremonial tree in the playground’s north section.
Over the summer, Korby Landscaping completed the remaining work. They removed the turf along the south fence and replaced it with trees and a native wildflower seed mix groundcover.
Korby Landscaping also removed the turf in the north section of the playground and replaced it with trees, boulders, and inorganic squeegee mulch. They adjusted the irrigation systems to reduce water use in these areas. They planted a tree in the pre-K playground and added another to the outdoor seating area outside the gym.
The project was funded through a combination of a grant from the Colorado Water Conservation Board, a donation from Larimer County, and district funds. Detailed Landscape developed the design.
Learn more about the shade trees and native landscaping at Laurene Edmondson Elementary School on the school’s website.