Washington Evening Journal
111 North Marion Avenue
Washington, IA 52353
319-653-2191
Tree giveaway goes fast
Kalen McCain
May. 16, 2022 11:07 am
Eager planters lined up in Washington’s central park as early as 7 a.m. Saturday for the Tree Committee’s annual giveaway, handing out 120 of the plants in just 20 minutes as attendees took their pick of the selection.
After filling the wait with planting advice from arborist Andy Dahl, a member of the tree committee, the giveaway started at 8 a.m.
While those at the back of the line had less to choose from, Tree Committee Chair Marde McConnell said it was a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
“Some people don’t always get what they want, but the ones who are in line at 7 a.m. know what they want and get what they want,” she said. “It goes so fast. It just feels exciting to see 100 people happy with trees.”
Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com
Early bird attendees of the tree giveaway in Washington take first pick of the selection. Some with specific tree choices in mind lined up as early as 7 a.m. to ensure they'd get the right plant. (Kalen McCain/The Union)
Tom Shepherd (left) and grandson Jack Shepherd compare American smoketrees at the 2022 Washington tree giveaway. (Kalen McCain/The Union)
Toward the middle of the line, Adam Clark (left) and Alex Whitehall consider their remaining options after some tree varieties ran out. (Kalen McCain/The Union)