The 2021 Grit City Trees Application is Now Open for the Season!
Through these challenging times, we can cultivate a better Tacoma – together. We recognize that now, more than ever, our community needs to find ways to connect and invest in our well being, our neighborhoods, and our community. Apply today for free street trees. Please submit online by emailing your completed application(s) to trees@cityoftacoma.org or by mailing a hard copy to Center for Urban Waters, 326 East D Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 ATTN: Urban Forestry.
Program Timeline
| Aug - Sept 2021: |
Completed individual applications are due August 22. Completed group applications are due September 5. Depending on availability, we may be able to distribute a second round of Grit City Trees for applications submitted past this date. |
| September 2021: |
The City of Tacoma reviews applications. Confirmations are sent to residents with tree distribution details. Due to limited resources for the 2021 program year, trees will be distributed on a first-come first-serve basis. If we are unable to provide you with a tree this year, be sure to reapply for the 2022 Grit City Trees Program or consider applying to our Tree Coupon Program. |
| Oct - Nov 2021: |
Grit City Trees delivery to neighborhood groups from the second to third week in October and individual pick-up will be scheduled for the last week in October through early November. |
| November 2021: |
Trees will be available at the City of Tacoma plant holding facility for pick-up by individual applicants to be planted in their right-of-way. Tree delivery to neighborhood groups is available courtesy of Washington Conservation Corps. *If you need planting assistance, the Pierce Conservation District can, on a case-by-case basis, offer delivery and planting help to participants who need physical assistance or lack access to a vehicle.* |
| May 2022: |
Washington Conservation Corps crews will deliver watering supplies to neighborhood groups while Urban Forestry Staff will distribute watering supplies to individual applicant’s trees. |
Why Plant a Tree?
- Grit City Trees are free to eligible Tacoma community members. There is no investment necessary other than your time, and willingness to improve your environment.
- Trees directly impact and improve your health, and the health of your community.
- Trees help capture and reduce air pollutants, improving overall air quality in your neighborhood. Trees let you breathe easier!
- Trees keep you cool by reducing temperatures on the hottest summer days, saving you money on your utility bill.
- Trees help reduce stress and improve your sense of well being by giving you relief from the urban environment.
- Trees build community. While not required, we encourage you to talk with your neighbors about planting Grit City Trees together as a neighborhood.
Equity Comes First
The City of Tacoma is committed to racial, social, climate, and environmental justice for our community. In support of this work, we are committed to cultivating a resilient and sustainable urban forest. As outlined in the City of Tacoma's Urban Forest Management Plan, our goal is to reach tree canopy coverage of 30% in Tacoma by 2030. With tree canopy coverage as low as 2.9% in some historically under-served neighborhoods, it is vital for the City to provide resources to support tree growth in these communities.
We recognize particular communities have greater access to resources than others. With this in mind, the limited resources and support we have available through the Grit City Tree program will be prioritized to neighborhoods identified as “Low” to “Very Low Opportunity” on Tacoma’s Equity Index. Tree coverage is a major factor affecting the livability of Tacoma's neighborhoods.