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DEC's Annual Tree and Shrub Seedling Sale is Now Open
Published: January 15, 2025
at 12:45 p.m.
By: Press Release
from NYS DEC
DEC's Annual Tree and Shrub Seedling Sale is Now Open
Every Tree Planted Counts Toward State’s Goal to
Plant 25 Million Trees by 2033
Free Seedlings for Youth Education Available through
School Seedling Program
New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean
Mahar has announced that the Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery’s annual
spring seedling sale is now open and will run until May 14, 2025. Each
year, the nursery offers low-cost, New York-grown tree
and shrub species for sale to encourage plantings that help conserve New
York’s natural resources and foster the next generation of forests.
“DEC is excited
for our annual seedling sale, which provides New Yorkers with an excellent
opportunity to get involved in environmental stewardship and support
progress to achieve Governor Hochul’s goal of planting 25 million trees by
2033,” said Interim Commissioner Mahar. “The annual tree
and shrub seedling sale not only allows individuals, families, and
organizations to affordably beautify their communities, it plays a vital
role in enhancing our natural ecosystems, combating climate change, and
promoting biodiversity. Whether you are a homeowner, part of a community
group, or a land manager, I encourage you to take advantage of this
valuable resource and help New York plant the seeds for a healthier,
greener future.”
DEC's tree
nursery grows more than 50 conifer and hardwood species from local seed
sources, creating seedlings that are well-suited to New York State’s
climate. Seedlings are sold in bundles of 25 or more and there are several
mixed species packets available for those looking for a variety. Seedlings
are a minimum of five inches tall and are one to three years old, depending
on the species. For more information including how to order, visit
the Spring Seedling Sale webpage on DEC's website.
Some species sell out quickly, so order early.
School Seedling
Program Application Period Now Open
Applications are now being accepted for the nursery’s School Seedling Program. From now until March 28,
schools and youth education organizations across New York State may apply
to receive 25 free seedlings to plant with students.
The goal of the
program is to help instill a sense of environmental stewardship among New
York’s youth and set a foundation that will allow
students to make informed decisions about the use of natural resources. The
program is an excellent tool for educators to use in meeting the Next
Generation Science Standards as it provides a hands-on opportunity to learn
about natural systems and the valuable role of trees, while building
awareness of conservation issues.
All schools
(public, private, nursery, elementary, secondary, vocational, college or
university), homeschool groups, and any youth education-based organization
may apply, provided trees are planted in New York State. Individual
homeschools must apply through a homeschool group, co-op, or other
association. Seedlings are two to three years old, approximately four to 12
inches tall, and bare-root. There are four species
available – jack pine, red oak, river birch or speckled alder – and each
school or organization may only receive one group of seedlings per year.
Visit DEC’s website for more information and to apply
online. For assistance or questions, contact the Colonel William F. Fox
Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery at nysnursery@dec.ny.gov or
518-581-1439.
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