More than 1,000 free native trees to be distributed in Riegelwood

RIEGELWOOD, NC (WWAY) — Residents across southeastern North Carolina will have the opportunity to receive free native trees next month as part of a large-scale environmental initiative in Columbus County.

The Alliance for Cape Fear Trees, in partnership with the Duke Energy Foundation, will distribute more than 1,000 native trees on Saturday, March 7, at Riegelwood Baptist Church, located at 103 N.C. Highway 87. The giveaway will run from 9 a.m. to noon, or while supplies last.

The effort is funded by a $25,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation and is part of a broader $550,000 statewide investment focused on environmental resilience.

“This partnership with the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees is a perfect example of how we can build stronger, more resilient communities through environmental stewardship,” said Pam Hardy, district manager of Duke Energy’s Government & Community Relations. “We’re proud to support efforts that bring lasting benefits — like cleaner air, cooler neighborhoods and greener futures — to the people of southeastern North Carolina.”

Each household may receive up to two native trees on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will serve residents in Columbus County and neighboring counties including New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender.

Available species include serviceberry, black gum, American hornbeam, river birch, fringe tree and several varieties of oak and elm that are well-suited for the region’s climate and soil conditions.

Trained Tree Stewards and certified arborists from Bartlett Tree Experts will be on-site to help residents choose appropriate species, demonstrate proper planting techniques and answer questions about long-term care. Organizers encourage residents to review species information ahead of time at this link.

“We’re not just handing out free trees,” said Isabelle Shepherd, executive director of the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees. “We’re helping people prepare their homes, their neighborhoods and their communities for the environmental challenges ahead. It’s about practical solutions with long-term impact.”

So far this planting season, the Alliance says it has distributed more than 4,300 native trees across New Hanover, Brunswick and Columbus counties through partnerships and grant funding.