The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has concluded its fifth annual Free Tree Fridays campaign, distributing 15,400 tree seedlings throughout the state. The events took place every Friday from March 21 to April 25, with a total of 3,620 Arkansans participating. The initiative was part of the celebration of Arbor Day and aimed to highlight the importance of trees in communities.
Participants received a variety of native tree species, including cherrybark oak, eastern redbud, persimmon, red mulberry, river birch, and Shumard oak. The campaign’s objective is to promote the benefits of trees and encourage proper planting techniques using native species.
“Free Tree Fridays is a way to celebrate Arbor Day by raising awareness about the benefits of trees and encouraging Arkansans to plant them in their communities,” said Kristine Kimbro, Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator. “We’re proud that this event continues to grow each year, offering people across the state the opportunity to plant native trees that support cleaner air and water, provide shade and wildlife habitat, and enhance the beauty of our neighborhoods.”
The campaign originated in 2021 when Grant County Ranger Troy Wood suggested a tree giveaway for Arbor Day. It has since expanded statewide into an anticipated annual event. Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and supported by the Arkansas Urban Forestry Council.
Although this year’s campaign has ended, additional resources are available on the Urban and Community Forestry webpage.
Information from this article can be found here.
