Free tree giveaway set for Saturday, Oct. 12

They say that nothing in life is free. That’s true most of the time, and while we’re sure someone can (and probably will) argue that the trees and shrubs set to be given away for no charge to Fayetteville residents on the square this weekend aren’t actually free, they seem to us to be about as close to free as you can get.

Free trees!

For the 15th consecutive year, the city’s Parks and Recreation Department and Urban Forestry Advisory Board have partnered to give away trees and shrubs to Fayetteville residents beginning at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12 in front of the Fayetteville Town Center.

The goal of the giveaway is to allow residents a hands-on opportunity to help grow the urban forest in Fayetteville. Tree varieties available this year include White Oak, Chinquapin Oak, Blackgum, and Yellowwood. Available shrubs include Shadblow Serviceberry, Blackhaw Viburnum, and Common Ninebark. The plants will be in either one- or three-gallon containers.

A few benefits of improving the urban forest in Fayetteville include cleaner air and drinking water, shade to protect residents from UV rays, improved pedestrian friendly walkways, higher property values, reduced heating and cooling costs, among several others.

Trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Proof of Fayetteville residency (a utility bill, driver’s license, piece of mail, or similar item) may be required, and the city only asks that the recipient will plant and maintain their free tree.

For information about the tree species, visit urbanforestry.accessfayetteville.org.

Get yourself a free tree.