Miami-Dade County to host Adopt-a-Tree giveaway in North Miami on July 25

Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM) will host its second 2026 Adopt-a-Tree event on Saturday, July 25 by giving away more than 2,500 trees in North Miami at FIU’s Biscayne Bay Campus. Eligible homeowners can receive up two free trees at 3000 NE 151st St., North Miami, FL 33181 starting at 8:30 a.m. Pre-registration is now open at miamidade.gov/adoptatree.  

"During peak summer heat, we see more clearly than ever how essential trees are. They lower temperatures, reduce cooling costs, improve air quality, enhance our communities, increase property values, manage excess rainfall, and provide natural protection from storm surge," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Each tree we plant and allow to grow to maturity delivers lasting benefits for our County, so we encourage all homeowners to take advantage of this valuable program." 

Homeowners of single-family and duplex properties in Miami-Dade County can receive up to two free trees per year through the program. Three Adopt‑a‑Tree events each year offer a unique selection of native species and edible fruit trees. Pre-registration is encouraged to confirm eligibility and streamline tree pick‑up, but it does not guarantee specific species or availability, as supplies are limited. 

“Trees are one of the most effective ways to enhance our neighborhoods,” said Miami-Dade County District 4 Commissioner Micky Steinberg. “Providing shade and beauty, they are a lasting investment in our community. I hope all eligible homeowners register to receive their two free saplings at this year’s Adopt-a-Tree events.” 

In 2025, Miami-Dade County launched its Urban Forestry Plan with a strong commitment to expanding the region’s tree canopy to by prioritizing low-canopy areas that experience higher heat exposure to create cooler, healthier, and more vibrant communities for residents across Miami-Dade. 

“I encourage all homeowners—especially in the northern neighborhoods of Miami-Dade—to take part in this free Adopt-a-Tree program,” said Miami-Dade County District 2 Commissioner Marleine Bastien. “Growing our tree canopy is one of the most effective ways to cool down our communities, giving nature the chance to lower the temperature and bring much-needed relief during our hottest months.” 

Created 25 years ago, Adopt-a-Tree brings together partner organizations that educate participants on how to plant and take care of their new trees. This second event of the season will bring together partner organizations that include Cox Media, Citizens for a Better South Florida, Dade Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, Urban Paradise Guild, Miami-Dade County Solid Waste Department, Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department, and UF/IFAS Extension Miami-Dade County. 

“Adopt‑a‑Tree is one of Miami‑Dade County’s top efforts to expand our tree canopy to 30 percent. Since 2001, the program has helped more than 250,000 free trees find loving homes thanks to the dedication of our residents,” said Loren Parra, Chief Resilience Officer and DERM Director. “By focusing on eligible homeowners, we’re helping ensure these trees are planted, cared for, and given enough green space to thrive for decades ahead.” 

This year’s Adopt‑a‑Tree giveaways are signature events of the Miami‑Dade 250 celebration, honoring the County’s history and commitment to a greener future. To commemorate this historic occasion, expedited adoption will be offered to veterans and active‑duty service members, with identification, who would like to receive two free trees for their homes.  
 
The final 2026 Adopt-a-Tree giveaway is scheduled for:  
 
Sunday Sept. 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.   
Zoo Miami   
12400 SW 152nd St., Miami, FL 33177  
 
To learn more, including eligibility requirements and volunteer opportunities, visit the Adopt-a-Tree website or call 3-1-1.