Dallas, Texas – Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) marked Dallas Arbor Day on Saturday, Nov. 4, with its 5th annual Branch Out Dallas tree giveaway event. This event, which has become a staple of the city’s Arbor Day celebrations, saw over 2,600 trees being distributed across six different locations, demonstrating Dallas’s commitment to enhancing its urban environment.
Since its inception in the fall of 2018, the Branch Out Dallas program has seen increasing demand and participation from the community. This overwhelming response has led to it becoming an integral part of the annual Dallas Arbor Day celebration. The program underscores the city’s efforts to foster a greener, more sustainable urban landscape.
Karen Woodard, the Forestry Manager at Dallas Water Utilities, highlighted the significance of the program. “This program supports city initiatives,” she said. “We appreciate our residents and volunteers who understand the value of planting more trees.” This statement reflects the community’s growing awareness and commitment to environmental stewardship.
The trees distributed during the event are not only meant to beautify the city but also to offer substantial environmental benefits. They play a crucial role in reducing stormwater runoff to drainage systems, cooling temperatures, improving air quality, and mitigating the urban heat island effect. These benefits are vital in urban areas where concrete and asphalt can significantly increase local temperatures.
Residents participating in the giveaway had the opportunity to select a 5-gallon tree from a variety of species, including bur oak, sycamore, American elm, Mexican plum, Shumard oak, and lacebark elm. These species were specifically chosen for their hardiness and suitability for the Texas region, ensuring their survival and growth in the local climate.
The annual Branch Out Dallas event demonstrates a concerted effort by the City of Dallas and its residents to promote environmental health and urban beautification. Through initiatives like this, Dallas continues to foster a greener, more sustainable urban ecosystem for current and future generations.
