Miami-Dade County is set to distribute over 2,500 free trees this Sunday during the third "Adopt-a-Tree" event of the season, which will take place at the Miami Zoo, located at 12400 SW 152nd St.
According to the official announcement, the event kicks off at 8:30 a.m. and will run until 11:30 a.m., or until supplies last. Attendees will enjoy free parking during the event.
Trees will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis, and while pre-registration does not guarantee availability, it does help verify the eligibility of applicants.
Homeowners of single-family homes and duplexes in the county are eligible to participate; however, residents of apartments and mobile home parks do not qualify for the program.
Eligible households can receive up to two free trees, with veterans and active-duty military personnel receiving expedited service upon showing identification.
The tree varieties available at this event include grafted mango, soursop, sugar apple, jaboticaba, achacha, and other tropical and native species like Crabwood, Jamaican Caper Tree, Simpson's Stopper, and Spanish Stopper.
In addition to the tree giveaway, attendees can adopt a pet through Miami-Dade Animal Services and exchange up to two inefficient showerheads and three incandescent light bulbs for high-efficiency alternatives—such as low-flow showerheads and LED bulbs—while supplies last.
The Adopt-a-Tree program was launched in July 2001 following a study that revealed unincorporated areas of the county had as little as 10% tree canopy coverage, with some areas as low as 1% or 2%.
Since its inception, the initiative has distributed over 250,000 trees to county residents, establishing itself as one of the longest-running environmental programs in the region.
This Sunday's event is part of the county's Urban Forestry Plan, which aims to achieve 30% tree canopy coverage within the urban development boundary by 2030, compared to the current 20%.
Since 2023, the county has planted over 20,000 trees under this plan, prioritizing neighborhoods with the least coverage, where heat and climate vulnerability are more severe.
Pre-registration for this Sunday's event is now open on the county's official website, though it does not guarantee the availability of trees or specific species.
Common Questions About Miami-Dade's Tree Giveaway
Who is eligible to receive free trees at the Miami Zoo event?
Homeowners of single-family homes and duplexes in Miami-Dade County can receive free trees. Residents of apartments and mobile home parks are not eligible.
What types of trees will be available for adoption?
The event will offer a variety of tree species, including grafted mango, soursop, sugar apple, jaboticaba, achacha, and other native and tropical trees such as Crabwood and Jamaican Caper Tree.
Does pre-registration guarantee the availability of trees?
No, pre-registration does not guarantee tree availability. It is used to verify eligibility, and trees are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.