GEORGETOWN, Delaware – The Sussex Conservation District distributed 500 native trees during its third annual Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative giveaway on Saturday, October 11, at the Vanderwende-Evans Conservation Center. The event supports Delaware’s Climate Action Plan and drew nearly 200 vehicles as community members lined up to select trees designed to improve air and water quality, support wildlife habitat, and strengthen local ecosystems.
According to Jessica Watson, SCD sediment and stormwater program manager, only 13 trees remained by the end of the morning. She said the event demonstrated how small actions, like planting a tree, can make a significant impact on the community and environment. Volunteers, SCD staff, and Master Gardeners helped attendees load trees, answer questions, and provide planting tips. Over the past three years, the initiative has distributed a total of 1,500 native trees across Sussex County.
The native trees distributed play an important role in Delaware’s environment by preventing soil erosion, reducing stormwater runoff, sequestering carbon, and providing food and shelter for wildlife. Each tree included a tag with a QR code linking to the TEDI Tracker, allowing recipients to register their tree and contribute to the statewide goal of planting one tree for every Delawarean. The Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative is implemented and managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, with support from the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program and other partners. Residents can learn more, register their trees, or view upcoming giveaway locations at de.gov/tedi.
The Sussex Conservation District encourages those who received a tree to share photos of their planting and tag SCD on social media to inspire others to participate. More information about SCD programs and events is available at www.sussexconservation.org.
SCD staff and volunteers take tree orders from guests during the Sussex Conservation District’s Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative (TEDI) giveaway, Oct. 11, 2025, in Georgetown. More than 50 vehicles lined up in the field, with additional cars wrapping around the building as residents waited to receive one of 500 native trees. Master Gardeners were on-site to answer questions and share planting advice while participants waited. (Photo: Submitted)