Click here for a downloadable version of the Parent FAQs
What kind of tree will we be getting?
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- Neighborhood Forest aims to provide native trees in all the regions we serve. Last year we gave away 11 different species. We tend to provide species on a state-by-state basis and like to provide different species each year to provide variety and diversity of trees.
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When will my tree be arriving and will it be shipped directly to my address?
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- We aim to have the trees arrive to your school, library, or youth group leader in time for Earth Day. If you are ordering your free tree from your child’s school, your child should bring the tree home when it is distributed at their school around Earth Day (April 22).
- If you are ordering your tree through your library, you will need to pick up your tree from your library when it arrives. You are responsible for contacting your library and arranging for the pick up of your tree around Earth Day.
- While the library should be contacting you about pick up details, we encourage you to be proactive. If you are ordering your tree through a scout group, we encourage you to contact the scout leader about pick up details around Earth Day.
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How do I care for my tree to ensure that it grows and thrives?
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- We encourage you to walk through this tree planting guide for best practices on caring for your tree.
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What if I don’t have a yard or place to plant my tree? Can I plant my tree in a pot and leave it indoors?
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- Ideally, you want to plant your tree in the ground, outside, in a permanent location where you can watch and care for its growth. These trees are accustomed to being outside in the elements, so if you do keep it in a pot for a year or two, be sure to keep it outside.
- We are in the process of developing an alternative indoor plant program for kids that do not have a yard or live in apartments. We hope to make this option available in the near future!
- In the meantime, if you do not have a yard to plant your tree, we encourage you to plant your tree with a willing friend or family member who has a yard.
How does Neighborhood Forest fund all of these free trees?
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- Our program is completely free and is funded by generous individuals, organizations, and businesses.
- Neighborhood Forest is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN: 86-2929372) dedicated to giving kids their very own tree every Earth Day.
How can I donate?
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- You can donate directly on our website, our fundraising campaign page, or a check can be sent directly to:
Neighborhood Forest
5244 Zenith Ave South
Minneapolis, MN 55410
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- All donations are tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law and are not an exchange for any goods or services.
How can I offset my carbon footprint through Neighborhood Forest?
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- The average American consumes 7 trees per year in wood and paper products and emits 20 tons of CO2 annually. One tree will sequester 1 ton of CO2 in its lifetime (on average). So, to go carbon neutral via trees, a person has to plant 20 trees for every year they are on the planet. Factoring in estimated tree survival rates and annual wood and paper consumption, we recommend planting 50 trees per year per person to offset an individual’s tree and carbon footprint – thus the 50 trees x $5 = $250 / year or $25 / month membership cost calculation.
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How can I get connected?
Updated 7/28/23