Free Trees Available Through “Buyback” Event

The Missouri Invasive Plant Council (MoIP), in partnership with Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, Forrest Keeling Nursery and the Missouri Department of Conservation, will host a Callery pear “buyback” program in locations around the state on April 23. On this date, citizens who complete event registration will receive a free native tree when they show a photo of a cut down Callery pear tree from their property.

Registration for the Callery Pear Buyback event is open through April 15. On the registration form, participants will choose their event location, select a native tree and upload a photo of the cut-down Callery pear tree. One free, non-invasive, native tree will be given to registered participants from 3-6 p.m. Apri 23 at the selected location. Participants will receive potted native trees, donated by Forest ReLeaf and Forrest Keeling Nursery, in three-gallon containers that stand between two- and four-feet tall. The trees are young and small to ensure the least amount of stress on the tree in the planting process, as well as easier transportation.