DNR Offering Free Tree Seedlings For Residents With Waterways Near Property

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering free tree seedlings to landowners with waterways on their properties. It's a part of their "Buffer in the Bag" program.

Trees and scrubs planted along waterways help improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, lowering peak water temperatures, reducing sediment and stabilizing stream banks.

Each bag contains 35 native bare-root tree and shrub seedlings with species appropriate to their region.

"Maryland Forest Service staff will provide information on tree maintenance and planting techniques, in addition to suggestions of other suitable native species at the time of pickup," DNR said in a release.

"Quantities are limited so reservations will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Order deadlines, pickup dates, and partner organizations vary by county — a list of contacts and dates for participating locations is found on the department's website," officials said.