Lincoln residents will have a chance to take home one of 200 free trees Friday as the city works to restore and diversify its tree canopy.
Lincoln Parks and Recreation will hold the giveaway beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Union Plaza during the Hub & Soul concert series. Trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Parks Operations Coordinator Mike Comstock told KLIN News the city has seen tree canopy loss from several causes, including storm damage, Emerald Ash Borer and aging trees. He said planting a greater variety of species can help restore shade, improve neighborhoods and help retain stormwater.
Six species of locally grown trees will be available. Residents should first visit the Parks and Recreation booth near 21st and P streets to receive a ticket. Once someone receives a ticket, their tree is secured and can be picked up before the concert ends.
Volunteers will be available to answer questions and help residents determine which type of tree is best suited for their property.
Comstock said residents should also consider where they plan to put their tree before planting. “Always before you dig a hole, you have to call 811 just to make sure you’re not digging over your power lines or gas lines, water lines, things like that,” Comstock said. “Making sure the tree is the right size for the space available.”
The trees are intended for planting on private property. Comstock said the trees typically go quickly, so residents interested in getting one should plan to arrive around the 5:30 p.m. start time.
More information about the giveaway and the available tree species can be found on the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Community Forestry webpage at Lincoln.ne.gov. Residents can also contact Lincoln Parks and Recreation at 402-441-7847 for more information.