Midwest City is putting down roots in community engagement by literally giving trees away. The city's Tree Board is offering residents the chance to green up their landscaping with a free five-gallon tree through its annual giveaway, as reported on the city's information page. Starting on Monday, locals can sign up to reserve a tree online, but they have to act fast—this offer is on a first come first serve basis and is notorious for its high demand. Each household is limited to one tree, and the choice is yours among various species including Eastern Redbud, Northern Red Oak, and many others.
To get in on the green action, residents just need to pay a visit to the city's giveaway page and click through to reserve. Mark your calendars though; this isn't a casual stroll in the park. Those interested will need to quickly to complete the process as soon as it opens up to secure their leafy reward. "This is an amazing partnership for Midwest City," Public Works Director Paul Streets stated, acknowledging the collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation and the enhanced user experience it brings, including a handy mapping tool for planting tips and possible energy savings estimations.
Every tree has its day, and Midwest City's trees will have theirs on Earth Day, April 26, where residents with successful reservations are to pick their new saplings up. Proof of residency and ID are mandatory when collecting your arboreal friend from the Nick Harroz Community Center. Remember, the ID and utility bill addresses need to match, and you'll need a vehicle to transport your new leafy addition. When you arrive, prepare to be given an assigned time for tree pick-up.
Since its establishment in 1980, the Midwest City Tree Board has been a perennial force in the fight for a greener community. With the Earth and its ecology at the heart of their mission, they seek to educate and advocate for the city's public spaces flourishing with nature's giants. The public can attend their meetings to hear more about the city's green initiatives; for times and dates, visit the Agendas & Minutes page on the city's website. "Trees enhance the community by creating an enjoyable place to work and live," Streets said, emphasizing the extensive benefits trees offer, from beautifying the landscape to supporting wildlife.
