Abingdon Tree Giveaway Program

Background: Abingdon, VA completed a heat-mapping project in July 2021 in partnership with Emory and Henry College and Virginia Department of Forestry. This mapping revealed urban heat islands in the town. To help address heat and to educate residents about the benefits of trees, Abingdon is going to hold a tree giveaway on November 5th 2022 at the Harry L. Coomes Recreation Center (300 Stanley St, Abingdon, VA 24210) from 9-11 a.m.

Residents will be allowed to select up to four free trees to beautify your property! Monetary donations from Food City USA, Bartlett Tree Experts and individuals make this program possible.

Choose up to four trees. The categories are:

White Dogwood (Cornus florida)

The state tree of Virginia, this native is known for it's bright white, early spring flowers that cover the tree.  Growing to 25' in height and width, this tree fits well in small yards, tight spots, and near overhead utility lines.  The green leaves turn a brilliant scarlet/burgundy in the fall.   The fruit clusters turn red in the fall and are a favorite with birds and other wildlife.

Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

This native is known for it's rosy pink to purple blooms that cover the tree in April.  Growing up to 30' in height and width, it is a great selection for small yards, tight spots, and near overhead utility lines.   The 6" heart shaped leaves begin with a reddish hue before turning green before turning yellow in the fall.   Several different bird species will eat the seeds.

Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica)

Also known as Black Tupelo, this native is known for it's glossy, deep green foliage that turns a spectacular orange, red, purple, and/or scarlet in the fall.   A mature specimen grows to 50' in height and 30' in width.  It prefers full sun with an acidic, deep and well drained soil. The fruit are a favorite for birds and other wildlife.

White Oak (Quercus alba)

This strong wooded native is the U.S. National Tree.   A long lived specimen can grow to 75'-100' in height and 75' in width. The 1" acorns are a wildlife favorite and the tree is host to a multitude of various caterpillars that are vital to bird fledglings. The tree prefers full sun with a slightly acidic, well drained soil.  The leaves turn red to burgundy in the fall

Petersburg Tree Giveaway Program

Background:  Did you know that trees can help to reduce your air conditioning costs and clean the air that we breathe? Come learn about the benefits of trees and receive one FREE TREE to take home and plant at a tree giveaway event in Petersburg. Events will be held in each ward this fall and spring. VSU students will be on site at each event to demonstrate how to properly plant your tree and share information about selecting a planting location and caring for your tree. You will also learn about the many benefits trees offer for you and your community. To participate, please complete the registration for each individual who would like to attend and receive their free tree (kids can get their own tree when they bring an adult!).

The City of Petersburg, VA completed a heat mapping project in July 2021, funded by Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC) and the Virginia Dept. of Forestry (VDOF.) This mapping revealed several urban heat islands. Initial analyses appear to correlate high heat retention with lower tree canopy cover. To begin to address heat in the city and to educate residents about the benefits of trees, the importance of good planting sites, and tree care, we will hold a series of workshops that will educate residents and distribute free trees across the city.

Residents will be able to preregister for a workshop via the web or phone. One workshop will be located in each ward to make it easy for residents to attend. Each registered participant will receive one tree. Children may attend with their parents and receive their own tree. In addition, the City of Petersburg Director of Public Works has identified city property available for tree planting.

There are two objectives of the tree giveaway:

1) Increase the number of trees planted on residential, municipal and commercial property in Petersburg.
2) Teach residents about proper tree planting location and planting technique as well as share information about tree ecosystem benefits and tree care.

Workshop Locations & Dates

Ward 1: Spring
Ward 2: Spring
Ward 3: Nov 2, 4-6 pm at 1964 Wakefield Dr.
Ward 4: Oct 15, 10-12 pm at YMCA 120 N. Madison Street
Ward 5: Oct 21, 5-6 pm at 444 Halifax St.
Ward 6: Spring
Ward 7: Spring

Information about Trees being distributed (see pictures on registration form):

1) Eastern Redbud: Max height up to 30 ft., heart shaped leaves, pink spring flowers
2) River Birch: Max height 70 ft., exfoliating two-toned bark
3) Witch-hazel: Max height up to 20 ft., yellow showy fall flowers, shrub
4) Blackgum: Max height up to 80 ft., glossy green leaves, beautiful red fall color
5) Serviceberry: Max height: 40 ft., showy white flower and edible fruit