Free Tree Seedlings Available for Talbot County

Riparian Homeowners Can Reserve by April 13

White pine seedlings are among the varieties available through the Talbot County Backyard Buffer program

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, in conjunction with the Talbot County Forestry Board, is offering free tree plantings to help improve water quality in targeted communities.

County landowners who have a creek, drainage ditch, stream or other waterway on or near their property are eligible for free tree seedlings through the department’s Backyard Buffers program.

Trees planted along waterways help improve water quality by absorbing nutrients, reducing sediment, stabilizing banks and lowering water temperatures. They also provide essential habitat for wildlife.Each Backyard Buffer Bundle contains 25 shrub or tree seedling of native species suited for streamside growing conditions, including sycamore, swamp white oak, river birch, common ninebark and either loblolly or white pine.

Interested property owners should submit an application to reserve a Backyard Buffer bundle before April 13. Reserved seedlings will be available for pickup from the Maryland Forest Service April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during Oxford Day in Oxford Town Park. Staff will also distribute remaining bundles at the event while supplies last.

Quantities are limited so reservations will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone with questions should call 410-479-1623.