Free tree giveaway set for Feb. 20, 21

By Kathryn “Chazz” Hirschfeld
HAMILTON & WINFIELD — In honor of Arbor Week, Feb. 18-24, the Alabama Forestry Commission will once again be holding free tree giveaways in the cities of Hamilton and Winfield.
Hamilton’s free trees will be given away on Tuesday, Feb. 20, in front of the Hamilton City Hall from 9-11 a.m.
Winfield’s free trees will be given away on Wednesday, Feb. 21, in front of Winfield City Hall from 9-11 a.m.
All giveaways are while supplies last.
“We invite everyone to come out and grab a tree or a couple of trees,” said Joel Bartlett, forestry specialist supervisor.
“We’ll have some forestry specialists and staff there to answer any questions you may have about planting the trees you select.
“We’ll have some information sheets on the trees on how to plant them and when to plant them. We’ll be available to tell you exactly how it needs to be done.”
He noted persons will also be able to find out if the type of trees they are selecting prefer shade or sun, and whether they are yard trees or wildlife trees.
“We’ll be there to answer any of those types of questions,” he said.

Tree Cities for
25-years-plus
Bartlett also noted the cities of Hamilton and Winfield have both been designated as Tree Cities for more than 25 years.
“We are doing this in honor of Arbor Week and Tree City USA.,” he  said. “Both Hamilton Mayor Bob Page and Winfield Mayor Randy Price have signed proclamations for Arbor Week. This is something we like to do during Arbor Week to give back to the community.
“Hamilton and Winfield’s Beautification Boards also assist us with our tree giveaways. They’ll be on site, too, to discuss their plans and goals for their cities’ beautification and other things like that.”