Bellevue gives away 700 trees, increases citywide tree equity

Published November 15 2024

During its recent annual tree giveaway, the City of Bellevue partnered with 300 Trees and Amazon to distribute more than 700 free trees to community members and organizations throughout the city.

Since the program's inception, the city has given out more than 3,200 free trees - distributing up to two trees to each applicant and up to 20 trees each to community organizations each year.

Tree canopy - which consists of mature trees planted in groups - absorbs greenhouse gases and improves overall air quality. When summer heat rises, tree canopy provides critical shade that helps to reduce temperatures. Bellevue's trees also slow stormwater runoff, which can damage infrastructure and homes.

In 2021, Bellevue achieved its goal of 40% tree canopy coverage citywide; however, Bellevue's tree canopy has remained uneven. Using Tree Equity Scores - which factor in existing tree canopy and a variety of additional demographic factors - the city prioritizes placing trees in areas that would achieve the most benefits from increased tree canopy.

In addition to trees, community members at this year's giveaway also received free watering bags and mulch for their saplings, along with instructions on ideal planting locations. Tree species given out vary each year and are selected based on availability and suitability for Bellevue's changing climate.

Those interested in receiving free trees from the city during next year's giveaway are encouraged to learn more and apply at Tree Giveaway once the application period reopens in June. Residents selected to participate in the program will be notified via email in September 2025 and will receive their trees later in the fall.