1,000 Free Trees Available For Rhode Island Residents

PROVIDENCE, RI — Free trees are once again available to Rhode Islanders, just in time for fall planting.

This is the 13th year that the Department of Environmental Management has offered the giveaway, in conjunction with the RI Tree Council, RI Nursery and Landscape Association and the Arbor Day Foundation. The department will give out 1,000 trees to help Rhode Island residents beautiful their yards, save energy and potentially lower utility bills.

"Planting a tree in the right place can improve air quality, sequester carbon, and help manage stormwater runoff," said Ken Ayars, the DEM's agriculture and forestry chief. "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. We’re especially pleased to offer free trees now, when many of us are spending more time in our backyards because of the pandemic."

Registration for the program opened Thursday. To reserve a tree, Rhode Islanders can complete the online application, as well as a pickup location. Trees can be picked up at the following dates and times.

Dexter Training Ground Park

• 85 Parade Street, Providence
• Sept. 25: 9 a.m. to noon

Richmond Elementary School

• 190 Kingstown Road, Richmond
• Oct. 2: 9 a.m. to noon

Colt State Park

• Route 114, Bristol
• Oct. 16: 9 a.m. to noon

RI Tree Council

• 2953 Hartford Avenue, Johnston
• Oct. 23: 9 a.m. to noon

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.