Maryland DNR Offers Free Tree Seedlings in Worcester, Somerset Counties

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources says it is offering free tree seedlings to landowners in Somerset and Worcester counties who have a creek, drainage ditch, stream or other waterway on or near their property as part of their Backyard Buffers program.

DNR officials say trees and shrubs planted along waterways help to improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, lowering peak water temperatures, reducing sediment and stabilizing stream banks.

Officials say the tree seedlings are being offered in limited quantities and that reservations will be taken on a first come, first serve basis. Each bag contains approximately 25 native bare-root tree and shrub seedlings, including bald cypress, river birch, serviceberry, spicebush and winterberry.

Maryland Forest Service staff say they will provide information to landowners about tree maintenance and planting techniques.

Interested landowners in Somerset County should contact (410) 651-2004 to order. Pickup will be from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 27 at the University Maryland Extension Office at 30730 Park Drive in Princess Anne.

Worcester County landowners who are interested should contact (410) 641-4314 to order. Pick-up is available from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m on Saturday, April 27 at Stephen Decatur Park on Tripoli Street in Berlin.