Calgary will be giving away thousands of trees this year in an effort to grow the city’s urban canopy. The City of Calgary’s Branching Out program gifted 5,000 trees to citizens last year and the year before, and will be handing out double that amount this year. “Trees are an intrinsic part of the quality of life in Calgary,” states the City of Calgary’s website. “They provide a myriad of environmental benefits. They also contribute to positive mental wellbeing. Trees help us connect with our communities.” According to the city, Calgary’s tree canopy coverage is 9.62 per cent, as measured in 2024. That includes trees planted on both public and private property. The city’s goal is to grow and expand the tree canopy coverage to 16 per cent. To achieve this, 10,000 free trees will be given to those who register with the city in April. Tree pickup then takes place in late May and June. Residents living in each of the city’s four quadrants will have three weekend days to pick up their tree. If you’re not able to pick up your tree, someone can pick it up for you – though they have to bring a copy of your confirmation email/text with them. Any trees not picked up will be offered to the public on a first come, first served basis. Free mulch will also be available, while supplies last.
