Berks County residents have an opportunity to support local environmental initiatives this fall by participating in Penn State Extension’s sixth annual native tree and shrub sale, organized by the Master Watershed Steward program.
The fundraiser offers 23 varieties of native trees and shrubs, including popular selections like pawpaw and persimmon. All proceeds from local sales will directly benefit Berks County Master Watershed Steward projects, such as stream restoration, youth education, and tree planting efforts.
Orders are open now and will be accepted through Tuesday, August 27 at 5 p.m. — or until supplies sell out. Locally, curbside pickup will take place on Saturday, September 20, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Berks County 4-H Center, located at 1206 County Welfare Road in Leesport.
Trees are available in 2-gallon containers for $33 each, with one option in a 1-gallon size for $20 and another in a 3-gallon container for $45. All items must be preordered either online at extension.psu.edu/mws-tree-sale-workshop or by phone at 877-345-0691. Plants will not be available for purchase on-site at the pickup location.
The Master Watershed Steward program encourages buyers to consider mature growth size and proximity to utilities before planting. A free online webinar — “Proper Native Tree Planting for Long-Term Success” — will be held on September 10 from noon to 1:30 p.m., offering guidance on selecting planting sites and maintaining healthy native trees. The webinar is free for customers and $5 for others. Registration is available at extension.psu.edu/proper-native-tree-planting-for-long-term-success.
Any trees not picked up during the scheduled time will be donated unless prior arrangements are made.
The Master Watershed Steward program trains volunteers to promote watershed health through community education and hands-on projects. More information about the tree sale and the program can be found at extension.psu.edu/mws-tree-sale.
