The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has launched its annual Arbor Day program, offering free tree seedlings to every fourth grader in the state. Principals, teachers, and homeschool educators have until March 16, 2026, to place orders, which can be submitted through the DNR’s website using the 2026 Arbor Day application form.
The DNR plans to involve students in Arbor Day celebrations on April 24, 2026, an event promoting tree planting nationwide. Since 1984, Wisconsin nurseries have provided fourth graders with tree seedlings as part of a long-standing educational tradition. According to the DNR, the program distributes about 50,000 seedlings each year.
Heather Berklund, DNR Chief State Forester, said, “Trees provide a variety of benefits to both people and the planet.” She added, “From filtering pollution and runoff and providing clean air and water to offering shelter and food for wildlife and giving us essential household products we use every day, it’s important that we continue to teach our youth and the public about the importance of growing, managing and regenerating our forests for all of us to enjoy today and into the future.” Berklund emphasized that trees play a vital role in environmental health and daily life. The seedling giveaway also includes educational materials on proper tree care, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
The seedling giveaway supports Wisconsin’s Trillion Trees Pledge, which aims to plant 100 million trees by 2030. Arbor Day, observed on the last Friday of April, has been celebrated in Wisconsin since 1883 to promote tree planting. For details on how to participate, contact Carey Skerven at the Griffith State Nursery at 715-424-3700.
