Introducing Our Community Pruning Program
Portland Fruit Tree Project is excited to launch our Community Pruning Program, a new initiative that provides low-cost fruit tree care to low-income Portland residents. This program is made possible through generous grant funding from the Oregon Department of Forestry, allowing us to reduce barriers to proper tree care and support long-term urban canopy health.
Many Portlanders have fruit trees that provide shade and food—but professional tree care can be expensive and out of reach. The Community Pruning Program exists to help community members keep their fruit trees healthy and productive, regardless of income. Whether it’s improving structure, encouraging better fruit production, or restoring an overgrown tree, we focus on long-term health and sustainability.
What the Program Offers
Through this program, our trained staff and pruning volunteers will provide seasonal pruning for fruit trees, vines, and shrubs at eligible properties for up to three years. Pruning takes place in winter and/or summer, depending on fruit tree type. To ensure safety, we can only work on fruit trees that are 15 feet or shorter, but we might be able to consult with an arborist if your fruit trees are in need of restoration and they are taller than 15ft.
We will prioritize:
Seniors
People of Color
Low-income households
Participants willing to engage for the full three-year term
Sliding Scale & Accessibility
The Community Pruning Program operates on a sliding scale, using the Green Bottle sliding scale as a starting point to promote equity and accessibility. Participants self-select a payment level based on their resources. No one will be turned away due to inability to pay.
After pruning is complete, participants receive a $0 invoice that shows the full value of the services provided. For those who are able and interested, we include an option to donate toward the cost of care—donations help sustain the program and expand access for others.
How Scheduling Works
We accept applications on a rolling basis. After reviewing submissions, we schedule pruning based on neighborhood, type of fruit trees, and program capacity. If we’re unable to accommodate a request right away, we’ll notify applicants and keep their information on file should space open up.
Apply for the Community Pruning Program
If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, we encourage you to apply.
👉 Apply for the Community Pruning Program here!
volunteer for the Community Pruning Program
Do you want to use your pruning skills, or learn to prune, through supporting this project? Email volunteer@portlandfruit.org!
Thank you for being part of this effort to care for Portland’s fruit trees!