Back in 1988, six friends sat around a campfire at a party celebrating the summer solstice. They talked about global warming and rainforest destruction—and what they could do about it on a local level. The friends decided to each plant three trees each: one on their property, one in their neighborhood, and one in the community.
From that conversation, TreeFolks was born. The next year, it incorporated as a 501c3 nonprofit, and since that time, it has set down more than 2.8 million trees across Bastrop, Hays and Travis Counties. Today, it works with communities throughout Central Texas in community tree planting, education and urban-wildland reforestation efforts, including in response to 2011 fire in Bastrop County and 2015 floods along the Blanco River, both of which devastated the tree population in those areas.
TreeFolks also distributes free trees and saplings every year between October 1 and March 31, the best time to plant a tree in Central Texas, through two programs:
- The NeighborWoods program is a partnership between TreeFolks and the City of Austin to help residents lower their energy bills and make their homes more comfortable while helping preserve Austin’s quality of life. Together, they distribute 4,600 trees every year. Restrictions apply; see if you qualify.
- During Sapling Days, TreeFolks gives away 1,000 baby trees. There are no qualifications necessary to receive a free sapling.
You’re in luck! The last sapling giveaway of the season is happening on March 9 at Willie Mae Kirk Library (3101 Oak Springs Drive) between 11am and 1pm. TreeFolks’ Education Coordinator, Collin McMichael, will be there to answer any of your tree-related questions. That same day, TreeFolks will also be holding its last planting day of the season—at Casey Elementary.
Interested in learning more? Visit the Events page of TreeFolks’ website for a schedule of tree giveaways, educational workshops, volunteer opportunities, and more.