CHADRON, Neb. (AP) — More than 40,000 trees are being planted in northwest Nebraska again this spring to help the area recover from the 2012 wildfires.

Crews from the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands have planted 41,300 seedlings this month in areas that were heavily damaged by fire.

The plantings are part of a 10-year plan. Last year, 42,500 seedlings were planted, and another 40,000 trees will be planted next spring.

Acting Pine Ridge District Ranger Geri Mason says it’s exciting to see the trees being planted.

The seeds for these trees were harvested from pine cones that were collected in 2009 and 2010 and stored at the Bessey Nursery.