LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s sixth annual Free Tree Fridays campaign successfully distributed 12,350 tree seedlings across the state during 30 events held each Friday from March 20 through April 24. A total of 3,200 Arkansans participated in the events, celebrating Arbor Day and the importance of trees in communities.
Each giveaway featured a variety of tree species native to Arkansas including shumard oak, overcup oak, sycamore, and pecan. The campaign aims to promote the many benefits of trees while encouraging proper planting techniques and the use of native species.
“Free Tree Fridays continues to be a meaningful way for Arkansans to celebrate Arbor Day and learn about the value of native trees,” said Kristine Kimbro, Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator. “Each year, the program highlights how important trees are to the well-being of our communities. We’re proud to offer Arkansans access to native species and the information they need to plant and care for them successfully.”
The Free Tree Fridays campaign began in 2021 when Grant County Ranger Troy Wood proposed a tree giveaway to celebrate Arbor Day. Since then, the campaign has expanded statewide, becoming a highly anticipated annual event.
Funding for this project is provided by the U.S. Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, with additional support from the Arkansas Urban Forestry Council.
The 2026 campaign has concluded, but additional resources and information are available on the Urban and Community Forestry webpage.
About the Arkansas Department of Agriculture
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. For more information, visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/.
