MoDOT, Conservation Team Up With Kids To Plant Half A Million Trees

Half a million trees will be planted in Missouri this year through the Trees For Tomorrow program conducted by MoDOT and the Department of Conservation.

Under the program, MoDOT purchases half a million trees a year, which the Department of Conservation distributes to youth groups throughout the state.

“We’re very excited about this partnership,” said Director Pete Rahn. “Our job of building roads and bridges requires us to remove trees sometimes, and we’re committed to replacing them with new ones each year. Trees For Tomorrow is the perfect way to increase the tree population in our state, and by providing them to youth groups, we’re putting trees in good hands that will help them thrive.”

Trees For Tomorrow is in the second year of a five-year agreement that will provide 2.5 million trees. More than 60 varieties of tree seedlings go to youth groups throughout the state, including Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, FFA and 4-H groups. MoDOT also funds MDC's long-standing annual program that provides a tree seedling to fourth graders statewide in celebration of Arbor Day. Trees are provided in conservation areas to improve wildlife habitats, and are made available at annual Arbor Day and Earth Day events.

“Trees For Tomorrow is a great way to get kids involved in protecting our natural resources,” said MDC Director John Hoskins. “We’re proud to work with MoDOT and kids all over Missouri to get trees planted, improve our environment and enhance the natural beauty of our state.”