The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), Virginia Interfaith Power & Light (VAIPL), and Mosby Memorial Baptist Church will give away 200 native trees and shrubs to Richmond residents on Saturday, September 21, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. This free giveaway is an opportunity for homeowners to beautify their properties while contributing to a healthier environment.
“Fall is the ideal time of year to plant new trees,” said Ann Jurczyk, CBF Virginia Manager of Urban Restoration. “These native species provide vital habitat for birds and pollinators, while also cleaning the air we breathe. Trees filter out particulate pollution, a major contributor to asthma attacks, and help reduce stormwater runoff. Planting a well-placed tree can even save money on heating and cooling bills.”
Residents can choose from a variety of native trees and shrubs suited for the Richmond area. Species available include Redbud, Dogwood, Serviceberry, Inkberry, and Buttonbush.
"Many of us know all the many health and ecological benefits of trees,” said Faith Harris, Executive Director of Interfaith Power & Light. “However, most do not know that trees play a significant role in many of our religious traditions. In the Hebrew Bible, New Testament, and the Koran, trees provide a metaphor for wisdom, strength, perseverance, and good or godly character. A lawn, community village, or landscape without trees is desolate and seemingly without creative activity. At VAIPL, we plant trees to honor their place within the traditions of our many faiths."
Despite their value, Virginia’s trees continue to disappear at an alarming rate. At a time when the Chesapeake Bay watershed is struggling to meet 2025 water quality and restoration goals, planting trees remains one of the most successful and cost-effective solutions to reducing polluted runoff and cleaning local waterways.
Trees also provide significant benefits in cities, where they cool communities, combat flooding and reduce air pollution, all of which are exacerbated by climate change.
Reserve free trees and shrubs and pick up your trees on:
- Date: Saturday, September 21
- Time: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 pm
- Location: Mosby Memorial Baptist Church (address provided upon registration)
This giveaway is a great way to:
- Enhance your landscape with beautiful native plants
- Support local wildlife and pollinators
- Improve air and water quality in your community
- Save money on your energy bills
Virginia Communications & Media Relations Manager, CBF
[email protected]
804-258-1567
