Help Plant Trees in Salem

Do you want to help plant trees in Salem? The City offers many tree planting opportunities during the planting season, which is usually from November to April. Friends of Trees organizes volunteer tree planting events in parks, along streams and in neighborhoods. The Urban Forestry Division and the Parks Volunteer Coordinator also plan planting events with schools and community groups.

In partnership with Friends of Trees, the City has started a Pilot Yard Tree Program. This program allows residents in certain neighborhoods to get low-cost, or even free, trees for their yards. Additionally, to protect water quality and keep streams cool, the City offers free trees and shrubs to property owners near streams through the Free Tree Program. Keep reading to learn more about these programs. 

Every year, the City of Salem works with Friends of Trees to find places to plant trees in parks. They focus on parks that have few trees or areas along streams that need shade. Once they choose the sites, Friends of Trees organizes volunteer planting events during the winter. These events happen from November to April, usually between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Friends of Trees provides tools, gloves, guidance and light breakfast snacks. For more information, or to sign up to volunteer, visit the Friends of Trees website.

Salem Parks also offers chances to plant and care for trees throughout the year. Individuals, families, businesses, schools, churches, and other community groups can volunteer to help clear tree circles, rake leaves, pull weeds, spread wood chips, and plant trees. Visit the Parks Volunteer webpage to learn more and contact the Parks Volunteer Coordinator to sign up. 

If you own a home or business along a stream in Salem, you may qualify for free native trees and shrubs. This program aims to increase shade near streams to protect water quality and lower water temperatures. If you live along a stream and want to join this program, watch for a letter that is mailed each year to all streamside property owners. If you have questions, or want to be added to the mailing list, please email stormwateroutreach@cityofsalem.net.