Cincinnati Parks: 2021 Apply For Your Free Tree

Press release from Cincinnati Parks:

Megan Baudendistel

2021-08-02

Applications open August 21, 2021 for Cincinnati residents in low canopy neighborhoods to receive a free tree! For the last 33 years, Cincinnati Parks’ Fall ReLeaf program has grown, improved and sustained the canopy coverage of our city. The highly successful effort has given away 20,000 free trees consisting of more than 40 species.

The Fall ReLeaf program was established to provide shade trees for homeowners whose curb lawns were too narrow for tree planting or for those with overhead utility lines. Front yard and backyard planting is permitted. The program has blossomed to include community and school involvement, a more diverse tree species selection and backyard planting. This year’s program was made possible by our generous sponsors, MadTree Brewing, Macy’s and the Cincinnati Parks Foundation. Their support allows us to provide trees to Cincinnati property owners at no cost.

Interested in participating for 2021? This year’s application roll out looks different than years past. In an effort to increase tree canopy in low canopy neighborhoods, applications will open first to neighborhoods with less than 40% tree canopy.  Click this link to register online. Applications are available August 21, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. to low canopy neighborhoods (listed below) and will open to all city residents September 4, 2021 at 8:00 a.m.

The Park Board’s Natural Resource division works diligently to bring each residential neighborhood up to 40% tree canopy coverage to help improve the impacts of air pollution, urban heat island effect, residential energy demands, and storm water management. Just one large canopy deciduous tree, such as an oak or sycamore, can help control 400 to 1,000 gallons of stormwater through canopy interception. This benefits homeowners by adding shade, beauty, reducing soil erosion, and managing flooding from rainfall.

MadTree Brewing is sponsoring Cincinnati Parks Fall ReLeaf for the second year in a row. They seek to connect people to nature and to each other. They are beyond excited to partner with the Cincinnati Parks Fall ReLeaf program in making a direct, positive impact on their Oakley neighborhood, which is currently below the 40% tree canopy coverage goal for each neighborhood in Cincinnati. They embrace their namesake and work to celebrate and protect nature while reducing their impact on the environment. They are proud members of 1% for the Planet, with a commitment to donate 1% of sales to non-profits focused on environmental sustainability. MadTree Brewing. Inspiring Madness. Rooted In Purpose.

Cincinnati Parks Foundation, founded in 1995, is the official philanthropic partner of Cincinnati Parks and has been supporting Cincinnati Parks’ Fall ReLeaf program for nearly two decades. Cincinnati Parks Foundation is committed to building broad-based private and public partnerships supporting the conservation and enhancement of our city’s parks and greenspaces. For more information, visit cincinnatiparksfoundation.org

Last years’ trees went quickly, so don’t wait. All residents, and especially those in neighborhoods with the lowest tree canopy, are encouraged to grab your free tree today. Help us meet our goals and improve our urban environment. Target neighborhoods below 40% tree canopy goal include:

This press release was produced by Cincinnati Parks. The views expressed here are the author’s own.