Fairfax County is bringing back a popular program that provides free trees to community groups for planting on privately owned properties.
The county’s Urban and Community Forestry Division (UCFD) is currently accepting applications for its tree distribution program until Oct. 30, inviting any local community organization — from volunteer groups and civic associations to faith organizations and nonprofits — to participate.
The trees will be delivered on Fridays this fall until Nov. 20 by the D.C.-based nursery Casey Trees, which previously partnered with the county to distribute free trees last fall and this past spring.
“This opportunity focuses on increasing tree cover in economically disadvantaged communities, which typically do not benefit from moderate to high tree cover,” the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES), which includes the forestry division, said in a press release.
The UCFD also worked with the Arbor Day Foundation this spring on a similar initiative to provide free tree plantings directly to residents.
Supported by a Tree Preservation and Planting Fund that the county has had in place since 2005, the distribution program is intended to assist community groups that might face challenges with obtaining high-quality trees themselves.
Proposed planting sites in areas identified as “vulnerable” based on income and education levels, English-speaking abilities, homeownership and other factors will be prioritized. From Herndon to Hybla Valley, those communities are often extensively paved with limited tree coverage, resulting in hotter temperatures, more intense flooding and other environmental challenges, as shown by the county’s climate map.
However, DPWES is encouraging all organizations to apply, regardless of where they hope to plant their tree.
The trees provided by Casey Trees will all be native, non-invasive species, ranging in height from 8 to 10 feet and weighing approximately 130 to 150 pounds. Planting areas must be at least 8 feet wide and have a 4-foot gap from any barriers to accommodate the tree’s growth.
More information about the types of trees being offered, planting guidelines and the application process can be found on the county’s website.
