The Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs Program, run by the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation, is accepting applications for spring streamside planting projects.

Anyone that owns or manages property near a stream in the Hudson River Estuary watershed is eligible to apply for free native trees and shrubs. The application deadline is March 1

Early applications are encouraged, particularly for large sites (more than 60 plants) or when requesting specific plant species. 

“Streamside plantings stabilize streambanks, reduce erosion, slow flood waters, and provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife,” said Commissioner Basil Seggos in a statement. “Trees also absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, making them a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. With the assistance of hundreds of volunteer partners in the Trees for Tribs program, DEC’s tree planting efforts are creating natural buffers to protect the Hudson River and its tributaries.” 

If a project is selected, the applicant must recruit volunteers for planting and maintain the site after the planting is complete. With certain projects, DEC staff may assist with plant selection, planting plan, site preparation, and other assistance to help projects succeed.

The Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery provides the plants, which are native, New York seed-sourced riparian species, ideal for flood- and erosion-prone areas.

A list of Trees for Tribs Programs in other New York watersheds is available on the DEC website.

To download an application, learn more about Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs, or to watch a video about Trees for Tribs on DEC YouTube, visit DEC’s  Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs website.

Now celebrating its 13th year, 7,300 Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs volunteers have planted more than 57,000 shrubs and trees at 365 sites spanning over 25 miles of streams.