plant today for a Greener tomorrow
Why Trees?
We want to bring more trees into areas of Columbia that have low canopy coverage. These areas often suffer from the effects of extreme heat and miss out on the mental and physiological benefits that trees and greenery impart. In order to bolster canopy coverage, Missouri Conservation Corps is offering free native trees, planting assistance, and resources to eligible residents and community spaces.
How Does This Work?
Availability
We provide trees in Columbia, MO twice a year, during the spring and fall planting seasons. The amount of and variety of tree species depends on the availability of our providers at Forest ReLeaf, and trees are distributed on a first-come first-serve basis.
Eligibility
For private residences:
- Own or have permission to plant on the property
- Be located in Tier One of Missouri Department of Conservation’s Community Conservation Tier Map
- Be willing to care for your tree for at least 3 years!
For community spaces:
Areas such as libraries, churches, schools, parks, food pantries, community gardens, and other community gathering spaces may also be eligible, regardless of geography. Please reach out to us directly—we’d love to partner with you!
Receiving and Caring for Your Tree
If you are unsure if your property can support a tree, have questions about what kinds of tree might be suitable, or would like recommendations based on our selection, we will schedule a visit with you to discuss your options.
After confirming your tree species and planting location, we will work directly with you to ensure a smooth planting process. With every tree, we may provide a Tree Diaper (a tree watering device and weed barrier), caging, and additional literature and resources on caring for a newly planted tree, all at no cost to the recipient. We want to give you and your new tree the best chances of establishing and thriving!
We are currently accepting requests for trees. Our Fall 2026 selection includes:
Small
- American Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)
- Blackhaw (Viburnum prunifolium)
- Eastern Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)
- Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
- Gray Dogwood (Cornus racemosa)
- Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago)
- Roughleaf Dogwood (Cornus drummondii)
- Vernal Witchhazel (Hamamelis vernalis)
Medium
- Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana)
Large
- Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)
- Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)
- Shellbark Hickory (Carya laciniosa)
- Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)
- Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera)
Are you ready to plant? Request your tree today for a greener tomorrow.
This program is made possible through the support of the Missouri Department of Conservation and Forest ReLeaf of Missouri. This program is also conducted in partnership with CoMO Canopy through the City of Columbia Office of Sustainability.
