**Steamboat Springs, Colorado-September 2, 2026-**It may always be a little late to the party, but Steamboat Springs’ Arbor Day celebration is ready to put down roots. The city is giving residents a chance to celebrate trees, grow something for the future and take home a free tree seedling. The giveaway will feature lodgepole pine and Douglas-fir seedlings, providing residents with a chance to branch out and add a little more green to their own piece of Steamboat Springs.
“Arbor Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the trees that make Steamboat Springs such a special place while looking toward the future of our community’s urban forest,” said Matti Hill, arborist with Parks & Recreation. “We hope residents will take home a seedling, learn a little more about caring for trees and find a place where it can take root and grow for years to come.”
The Arbor Day Tree Seedling Giveaway will take place on Saturday, September 12 starting at approximately 9:30 am and running until trees run out or 1pm, at the Parks & Recreation building. Trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of five trees per household. Residents are encouraged to arrive early, as supplies are limited.
While Arbor Day is traditionally observed on the last Friday in April, Steamboat Springs celebrates in the fall when planting conditions are more favorable. Arbor Day has been celebrated in Colorado since 1889, and Steamboat Springs continues the tradition by recognizing the important role trees play in the community.
Steamboat Springs is celebrating its 35th consecutive year as a Tree City USA community in 2026. The national program, administered by the Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes communities committed to effective urban forest management.
Taking root in 1976, Tree City USA began a movement to inspire communities to prioritize planting and caring for trees, strengthening the health and wellbeing of people and places. From the 42 communities recognized that first year, the program has expanded to every state across the nation.
Parks & Recreation oversees the city’s forestry program, caring for more than 500 trees along streets, medians and rights of way and more than 2,500 trees in city parks and facilities. Activities throughout the year are possible through partnerships with the Colorado State Forest Service, Yampa Valley Sustainability Council, Colorado Parks & Wildlife, Routt County Wildfire Mitigation Council and other local organizations and civic groups.
Whether you’re looking to plant a future shade tree, add some habitat to your property or simply put down a few new roots, the city encourages residents to join the celebration. After all, a healthy urban forest is something worth branching out for.
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Contact
Email Matti Hill, Arborist, or call 970-879-4300
Email Johannes Thorsen, Parks Supervisor, or call 970-871-7010
Email Michael Lane, Marketing & Communications Manager, or call 970-871-8220