Annual Tree Giveaway Draws Big Turnout

SIDNEY-On Saturday morning, April 20, the annual Tree Giveaway was held at the Legion Park Shelter House. Although the location was different this year, there was snowfall in the morning, a seemingly regular occurrence that coincides with the Tree Giveaway.

Parks Superintendent Tom VonSeggern said, “Just like clockwork if it's Tree Giveaway day, we're going to have some snow.” Although there was a chill in the air, it did not dampen the spirits of those who came out to take advantage of the free tree offerings. Those who registered were able to take home a tree, ready for planting, supplied by the J. Frank Schmidt & Son company, out of Boring, OR.

Before receiving their trees, registrants received instructions on the proper way to plant and care for the trees, to ensure that the trees were healthy and able to grow to their maximum size. Coffee and donuts were provided by the Lodgepole Valley Youth Camp Board. Chrissy Land, of the Nebraska Forest Service, was on hand to deliver the instructions and answer any questions about the care and planting of the trees.

The tree distribution was assisted by the local Boy Scout Troop 90. Between 80 and 90 trees were given away, and attendees are now just hoping the weather will warm up a bit to make it easier to dig holes to plant the trees. Although the giveaway usually results in a new tree being planted at the site of the giveaway, that had to be delayed this year due to the snow and frozen ground the area experienced on April 20.