Want A Tree? RI Will Give You One For Free

RHODE ISLAND — Are you looking for something to beautify the backyard for years to come? Rhode Island residents can sign up for a free tree from the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), in conjunction with the RI Tree Council, RI Nursery and Landscape Association and the Arbor Day Foundation.

The state is offering 1,000 free trees. Now in its 13th season, this popular program helps Rhode Islanders save energy and lower their utility bills by strategically planting trees on their property, a DEM spokesperson said.

"Planting trees in our neighborhoods makes them greener and provides shade to keep people cooler and healthier in hot weather," DEM Director Terry Gray said in a statement. "These are investments in our communities and the quality of life throughout Rhode Island, particularly in our cities. From an environmental perspective, planting a tree in the right place can improve air quality, capture and store carbon and help manage stormwater runoff.

"It's a terrific way for Rhode Islanders to reduce their energy costs today and in the years to come, and a tangible way to stand up to climate change," Gray added. "Fall is an ideal time to plant a tree because the cooler temperatures help encourage new root growth."

Planting the right tree in the right place is the key to maximizing the energy-saving benefits trees provide. State officials said when planted properly, one tree can save homeowners money on energy costs by shading their home in the summer and blocking cold winds in the winter.

The two small species (up to 30 feet tall) available in the fall giveaway are the Shantung maple and pawpaw. Medium-sized trees (up to 50 feet) include the trident maple, katsura tree and tupelo. Large species (taller than 50 feet) include the bald cypress, frontier elm and red oak.

Rhode Islanders can sign up for the program here. To sign up, register online, select the preferred type of tree and choose a pick-up location.

Pick up events will be held around the state from Sept. 10 through Oct. 1. The pickup times are 9 a.m. to noon.

• Sept. 10: Richmond Elementary School 190 Kingstown Rd., Richmond
• Sept. 17: Colt State Park Rt. 114, Bristol
• Sept. 24: Dexter Training School 85 Parade Street, Providence
• Oct. 1: RI Tree Council, 2953 Hartford Ave., Johnston

At the time of pickup, trees will be about four to six feet tall and in three-gallon containers. They will fit in most cars, the DEM said. The program is only open to Rhode Island residents, and all trees must be reserved in advance.