Blue Hills Climate Action Coalition presents free tree giveaway in tree planting campaign

Members of the Blue Hills Climate Action Coalition are pleased to announce a free tree-giveaway to residents to help combat global warming.

The group had originally planned a tree-planting campaign in April in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, however, like many other events, plans were changed due to COVID-19.

Now, residents can choose from four native deciduous species of plants (Northern Red Oak, Red Maple, River Birch, and Serviceberry) and a naturalized conifer, Norway Spruce. The native trees have co-evolved over time with native wildlife species and are well suited to provide appropriate food and shelter.

Trees are available for pick-up beginning on Monday, June 8 through Friday, June 12, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. daily at the Mary May Binney Wakefield Arboretum, located at 1465 Brush Hill Road in Milton. The give-away will resume Monday, June 15 through Friday, June 19, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. while supplies last.

The tree pick-up plan will include social distancing protocols; people will be asked to stay in their cars and trees will be loaded in by volunteers. There is a limit to two trees per family while supplies last. For a description of the trees, please see the group’s Facebook page.

There are many reasons to plant trees. They help reduce climate change through a process called carbon sequestration, where they remove carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen. And they offer cooling shade, block cold winter winds, attract birds and wildlife, purify our air, prevent soil erosion, clean our water, and add grace and beauty to our homes and communities.

For more information or questions please visit www.bluehillsclimateaction.org or call 617-967-4578.