How to Get Free Trees Through Forest ReLeaf's CommuniTree Program

Updated

CommuniTree is Forest ReLeaf's program that provides free trees for public and nonprofit planting projects. If you represent a municipality, school, park, community group, or nonprofit working on public land in Missouri, this is the pathway to request trees at no cost. The program is aimed at projects that expand the native tree canopy in community and public spaces rather than private residential yards.

Who CommuniTree Is For

Forest ReLeaf describes its work as partnering with "community groups, individuals, municipal governments, under-resourced communities and non-profits" to expand native tree growth across Missouri. CommuniTree specifically targets public and nonprofit projects.

Typical eligible applicants include:

  • Municipal governments and public agencies
  • Schools and campuses
  • Parks and public green spaces
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Community groups planting on public or community land

The key condition is that the planting serves a public or nonprofit purpose — not a private, for-profit landscape.

What the Program Provides

  • Free trees for qualifying public and nonprofit projects
  • Trees selected to be well-adapted and ecologically appropriate to the site
  • A focus on native species that support biodiverse forest systems

Forest ReLeaf notes it does not "plant trees randomly" but plans "for well-adapted, ecologically appropriate trees in the right places." That means your project should have a clear planting site and purpose, not just a general request for trees.

How to Start the Process

  1. Confirm your project qualifies. Your planting should be on public land or tied to a nonprofit/community purpose.
  2. Identify your planting site and goal. Know where the trees will go and what community benefit they serve (shade, air quality, habitat, stormwater, etc.).
  3. Visit the CommuniTree page on moreleaf.org. The homepage lists CommuniTree with a "Get FREE TREES for public/nonprofit projects" link and a "Learn More" button — that page carries the current application details and requirements.
  4. Follow the application or contact instructions provided there. Program pages are the authoritative source for deadlines, forms, and current eligibility, since these can change.

What to Have Ready

Because Forest ReLeaf plans plantings strategically, a strong request typically includes:

  • The organization or public entity you represent
  • The specific planting location
  • The intended community or ecosystem benefit
  • Who will plant and maintain the trees

Related Programs Worth Knowing

Forest ReLeaf runs several connected efforts, and one of them may fit your situation better:

Program Focus
CommuniTree Free trees for public/nonprofit projects
Priority ReLeaf Growing trees where they're needed most
Treesilience Building a resilient tree canopy by "leveling the planting field"
Volunteer Lending time and talents to Forest ReLeaf's team

If your project is in an under-resourced area, Priority ReLeaf or Treesilience may also be relevant.

Common Questions

Does it cost anything? CommuniTree is described as providing free trees for qualifying public and nonprofit projects. Any costs beyond the trees themselves (planting, maintenance, site prep) are not addressed in the available information, so confirm with Forest ReLeaf.

Do I need to be in Missouri? Forest ReLeaf's stated mission covers native tree growth "across Missouri," so projects outside the state are unlikely to qualify.

Can I get trees for my own yard? CommuniTree is framed around public and nonprofit projects, not private residential planting.

Next Step

Go to moreleaf.org, open the CommuniTree section, and use its "Learn More" link to reach the current application or contact details. That page is where eligibility, timing, and submission specifics are kept up to date.