Hundreds of Seedlings Find New Homes
Nearly 2,000 seedlings were readied for distribution to local families and elementary school students, thanks to the support of community partners and dedicated helpers. Submitted Photo
Staff Report
BROWNSVILLE, Ky. — The Edmonson County Conservation District, in partnership with the Kentucky Division of Forestry and several local organizations, hosted its Annual Tree Seedling Giveaway Saturday, April 19, drawing a strong community turnout and distributing nearly 2,000 seedlings to local families and students.
The event, held at the old service station across from the district office on Washington Street, featured a wide variety of native tree seedlings, including Redbud, Dogwood, Pecan, Yellow Poplar, Pin Oak, and White Pine. All seedlings were offered free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, with limits in place for certain species due to high demand.
In addition to the public giveaway, approximately 900 pine seedlings were delivered to Kyrock and South Edmonson Elementary Schools, ensuring that every elementary student received a tree to plant. The distribution to schools was coordinated through a partnership with Edmonson County 4-H, whose youth volunteers also helped bag seedlings for students.
Volunteers prepare tree seedlings for the Edmonson County Conservation District’s Annual Giveaway by wrapping them in donated copies of The Edmonson News. Submitted Photo
“We were thrilled with the turnout and the community’s enthusiasm for planting trees,” said a representative from the Conservation District. “Every seedling found a home, and that’s what we love to see—trees getting into the ground and into the hands of people who will care for them.”
The giveaway not only promotes environmental stewardship but also fosters educational engagement and community collaboration. Other supporting partners included the Edmonson County UK Extension and a team of dedicated volunteers.
“The trees go fast every year, and that’s a good problem to have,” said one volunteer. “They’re perishable, so seeing them picked up quickly means they’ll be planted while they’re still viable.”
The event continues to be a favorite annual tradition in Edmonson County, as families look forward to contributing to local reforestation efforts while enjoying the benefits of shade, beauty, and habitat that trees provide.
