Free tree distribution at Legion Stadium draws hundreds despite rain

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY-TV) – It might have been rainy outside Friday, but dozens of residents are looking forward to gardening.

The Alliance for Cape Fear Trees hosted a free community tree distribution at Legion Stadium in Wilmington today.

The group had more than 1,400 native trees to distribute at no cost to community members. Isabelle Shepherd is the executive director of the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees. She said this was their largest tree giveaway in the event’s ten-year history.

“I think the fact that we have a line of people right now waiting for trees even though it is foul weather out here, I think that just really speaks to how our community cares about trees and wants to see more of them,” Shepherd said.

Certified arborists and trained volunteers were on hand to help attendees choose the best trees for their property and provide tips for their proper planting and care.