CHANDLER, Ariz. – Chandler residents can grow their own part of the city’s urban forest at the annual Chandler’s Celebration of Arbor Day on Nov. 7. The free event offers residents a five-gallon tree to plant at home, along with a tree care kit valued at more than $170 to help support proper watering and long-term tree health.
The celebration takes place from 9-11 a.m. at Folley Memorial Park and will feature interactive, educational activities designed to help residents select, plant and care for trees in their home landscapes.
While Arbor Day is typically celebrated nationally in April alongside Earth Day, Chandler hosts its event in the fall to align with a more appropriate planting season for Chandler.
“Fall is an ideal time to plant trees in our desert climate, so this event is well-timed for attendees to put what they learn into practice right away,” said Ryan McCartney, urban forester for the City of Chandler. “We want participants to leave with more than a tree. We want them to have the knowledge and tools to help it thrive.”
In partnership with the Arizona Sustainability Alliance, Chandler residents will receive tree care kits designed to make proper watering and long-term tree maintenance easier at home. Each kit includes a hose, irrigation timer, soil moisture meter, and additional supplies to help residents establish healthy trees. The kits are intended to give residents practical tools they can continue using well beyond the Arbor Day event.
The event will also provide residents with guidance on selecting appropriate tree species for their landscapes, choosing suitable planting locations and understanding proper irrigation and maintenance practices. These resources aim to improve long-term tree survival while supporting Chandler’s efforts to expand and maintain a healthy urban forest.
Ahead of the Arbor Day event, Chandler is also partnering with ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth, a Chandler-based nonprofit that provides no-cost, year-round out-of-school time opportunities for youth and their families. On Nov. 6, ICAN youth will plant 13 trees at the organization’s Chandler main campus with guidance and support from Chandler’s Parks Division.
“We’re excited to partner with the ICAN community for a tree planting event on their campus,” said McCartney. “The participants will be able to watch their hard work pay off as these trees mature and thrive over the years.”
In order for Chandler residents to receive their free tree and residential kit at the Arbor Day event, they must show proof of residency. Trees are available while supplies last.
Folley Memorial Park is located at 601 E. Frye Road. For more information, visit Chandler's Celebration of Arbor Day.
About Arizona Sustainability Alliance
Arizona Sustainability Alliance (AZSA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2017 to create and support innovative, project-based sustainability solutions throughout Arizona. Through civic engagement, collaboration, and education, AZSA works alongside municipalities, schools, businesses, community organizations, and residents to address environmental challenges and strengthen community resilience. Its work focuses on four core priorities: Urban Forestry, Conservation, Sustainable Food Systems, and Clean Energy. With youth engagement, education, and workforce development integrated across its initiatives, AZSA expands access to environmental resources, creates opportunities for meaningful community participation, and empowers Arizonans to build healthier, more equitable, and sustainable communities.
Media Contact:
Malori Heppler, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
480-782-2910
Event Contact:
Ryan McCartney, Urban Forester
480-782-2748