By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
The College Station Parks and Recreation Department is offering residents an early holiday treat by distributing 1,450 free native trees on Friday, Dec. 12, at Veterans Park and Athletic Complex. The giveaway runs from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., or until supplies run out.
The festive giveaway supports ongoing environmental efforts, including the Cooling College Station Plan, Bird City and Tree City USA initiatives. The trees will help lower neighborhood temperatures, support native wildlife, and add lasting beauty to local yards.
Mid-October through December is the ideal time to plant trees in College Station, making this a perfect opportunity to give back to the environment while celebrating the season.
A total of 1,000 1-gallon trees and 450 15-gallon trees will be available.
Available Trees
Tree species may differ from what is listed due to the supplier.
| 1-Gallon Trees | 15-Gallon Trees |
| Bur oak | Texas redbud |
| Desert willow | Chinquapin oak |
| Montezuma bald cypress | Southern magnolia |
| Swamp chestnut oak | Loblolly pine |
| Wax myrtle | Cedar elm |
| White oak | Shumard oak |
| Desert willow | |
| American elm |
How the Giveaway Works
Supplies are limited, and lines may form before the start time, so we recommend arriving early. The limit is one tree per vehicle, and a College Station resident must be present. A state ID, driver’s license, or utility bill showing a current College Station address is required.
After selecting a tree, you’ll complete a short electronic form. Care and planting instructions will be emailed to you, along with a request to share the future planting location to support Cooling College Station data.
What To Bring and Prepare
Plan how to lift and secure the tree in your vehicle. Wear gloves, use straps, and bring a helping hand if needed, as 15-gallon trees can weigh 60-90 pounds. Review each species beforehand to ensure the tree you choose is suitable for your yard, soil, and sunlight conditions.
The Texas Native Tree Giveaway is organized through a partnership between College Station Parks and Recreation staff, Conservation Advisory Group volunteers, and Trees for Houston, a nonprofit dedicated to planting, protecting, and promoting trees.
The early holiday giveaway is a joyful way to add shade, color, and wildlife habitat to your property while supporting our community’s environmental health. Stop by, pick a tree, and celebrate the season with a lasting impact.
For more details on our conservation efforts, visit cstx.gov/conservation or call 979-764-3486.
About the Blogger
Kelli Nesbitt has served the Parks & Recreation Department for 19 years, including 12 years as marketing coordinator. She also served 1.5 years as the marketing and community engagement specialist for the City of Bryan from 2023-25. A Bryan native, Nesbitt earned a bachelor’s degree in health & kinesiology from Sam Houston State.
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Thank you so much for providing these trees!!!! Suzanne Holt