Each year, local organizations come together for TreeFest, a tree seedling giveaway dedicated to rebuilding our native tree canopy. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers and participants, we continue to see incredible success and community engagement. Take a moment to learn more about the history of this event and the impact we made together in 2026.
2026 Impact by the Numbers
Our community showed up in a big way this year to support our local ecosystem:
- 6,396 native seedlings distributed
- 759 local participants
- 19 native tree and grass species
- $4,181 in donations
- 7 local partners involved
Why Seedlings Matter
While larger, 3-gallon trees can provide an immediate impact, seedlings offer unique advantages. They are easier to transport, require less immediate maintenance, and offer residents the opportunity to watch their trees grow and thrive over the years. Plus, planting a seedling means giving your tree the best possible start in its natural environment.“Our goal isn’t just to give away trees—it’s to cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship,” said Amy Mead, spokesperson for TreeFest. “We want to make sure everyone can participate in this long-term restoration effort.”
The History of TreeFest
TreeFest began in 1997, following the devastation of hurricanes Bertha and Fran, which decimated tree populations in the area. Since its inception, TreeFest has given away over 100,000 tree seedlings to area residents.
These plants are grown at the NC Forest Service Nursery in Goldsboro, NC. This event is made possible by a voluntary planning committee and a coalition of sponsors, including:
- The City of Wilmington
- Independence Mall
- N.C. Cooperative Extension
- NC Forest Service
- New Hanover County Soil and Water Conservation District
- UNCW’s Departments of Environmental Sciences and Biology & Marine Biology
Thank You for Growing With Us
Thank you to everyone, both volunteers and participants, who came out to support this wonderful event and get your free native tree seedlings! All donations go directly towards covering the cost of the event and purchasing trees for next year. Every dollar helps grow a greener region.
Want to support TreeFest? Contact longa@uncw.edu to make a one-time donation towards 2027!
