Thanks to a “Birdies for Trees” partnership, almost 2,000 free trees will be handed out to the public from 12:45-2 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at Gauley Field, 513 12th St., Silvis.
Residents interested in receiving trees can do so on a first-come, first-served basis after a tree planting ceremony at Gauley Field. There are no limitations on the number of trees people can take. An assortment of swamp white oaks, red oaks, and pecans will be available.
The event is being presented by Living Lands & Waters (LL&W), in collaboration with John Deere Classic and the City of Silvis. This initiative is part of LL&W’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, demonstrated through a pledge to plant one tree for every birdie scored in the 2023 John Deere Classic golf tournament.
The 2023 JDC saw 1,929 birdies scored, resulting in 1,929 trees being available for the public to plant within the community.
To kick off this green initiative, LL&W will ceremoniously plant a tree at Gauley Field, symbolizing the “Birdies for Trees” partnership. George O. Barr elementary students will plant the ceremonious tree, creating an educational opportunity surrounding environmental stewardship and community revitalization.