For Immediate Release
Contact: Colbie Jones
cjones@mhpteamsi.com
870-917-7819
Free trees offered to Garland County businesses and residents
The Arkansas Urban Forestry Council (AUFC) is offering free trees to Garland County businesses and residents to plant and help promote sustainable community forests. The tree giveaway drive-thru event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, March 5, at the Garland County Library, 1427 Malvern Avenue.
A mix of bareroot and containerized hardwood tree species, including Nutall, Pin and Shumard oaks, will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Though Garland County is comprised mostly of the forest-covered Ouachita Mountains, planting trees in urban areas, such as within the city limits of Hot Springs, is integral for enhancing quality of life,” said Anthony Whittington, City of Hot Springs Parks & Trails director and AUFC board president. “Trees in urban areas can aid in the reduction of runoff into our waterways, can filter out pollution and improve air quality.”
“Planting, maintaining, and conserving community trees benefits all Arkansans,” said Kristine Kimbro, Urban & Community Forestry Coordinator for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture Forestry Division (ADA-FD). “Tree giveaways empower residents at all socioeconomic levels to enhance the natural beauty of their surroundings and to enjoy those benefits in their own backyards and business districts.”
The AUFC is funded through a subaward grant from the ADA-FD’s Urban & Community Forestry Program.