POCATELLO — The city of Pocatello is making urban forestry improvements in Historic Downtown and across the community as part of a continued effort to improve the health and safety of its urban forest.

City crews will remove unhealthy trees, replace missing or damaged trees and address locations that pose a potential risk to public safety. The city said nearly all removed trees will be replaced.

Trees or vegetation that have outgrown their space or encroach on sidewalks and other pedestrian areas will be assessed.

As part of the effort, Bannock Bark Park will close temporarily April 21-24 to allow for necessary tree removal. The dog park is located at Center Street and Union Pacific Avenue in Historic Downtown Pocatello.

A private contractor will remove several dead trees within the park to improve safety for visitors and their pets. The park will be fully closed during that time so work can be completed safely and efficiently. New trees will be planted in the area in the coming weeks.

The forestry improvements represent a significant community investment. In November 2023, the city was awarded a $1 million Urban Community Forestry Grant and has since received an additional $795,000 in funding. Work associated with the grant is expected to be completed by May.

Tree planting efforts have been ongoing across the city. In fall 2025, crews planted 209 trees, and approximately 200 more are expected to be planted this spring. About 50 to 60 trees are expected to be planted in Historic Downtown Pocatello alone.

After a 2024 windstorm and other severe weather, the city’s maintenance efforts have been extensive. During the 2025 phase of the grant, crews pruned and trimmed hundreds of trees, with a significant portion of that work taking place at Mountain View Cemetery.

Additional work in 2026 has already begun or is planned at several parks and public spaces, including Mountain View Cemetery, Alameda Park, Freckleton Park, Ross Park, Centennial Park, Caldwell Park and Constitution Park, with more locations to follow.

All work is being completed by professional crews with certified arborists to ensure long-term tree health and public safety.

The city said it appreciates the public’s patience as this maintenance work continues.

For more information, contact the Pocatello Parks and Recreation Department at 208-234-6232 or visit pocatello.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/2477.