Miami-Dade County to host final 2026 Adopt-a-Tree giveaway at Zoo Miami on Sept. 13

Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM) will host its third and final 2026 Adopt-a-Tree event on Sunday, Sept. 13 at Zoo Miami to give away over 2,500 trees. HEAT mascot Burnie and the Miami HEAT Dancers will join eligible homeowners receive up to two free trees. Residents can choose from a variety of species, including Achacha, Crabwood, Grafted Mango, Jaboticaba, Jamaican Caper Tree, Simpson's Stopper, Spanish Stopper, Soursop and Sugar Apple, on a first come, first served basis. The event will take place at 12400 SW 152nd St., Miami, FL 33177 between 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 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." 

So far, over 5,000 trees have been successfully adopted through DERM’s “Adopt-a-tree" program after their events in Hialeah and North Miami. The County expects to give away over 7,500 trees to residents in 2026. Homeowners of single-family and duplex properties in Miami-Dade County can receive up to two free trees per year through the program.  

“Trees are an investment in the health, beauty and future of our communities,” said Miami-Dade County Vice Chairman Kionne L. McGhee, who represents District 9. “By providing free trees to homeowners, we are helping create cooler, greener neighborhoods while growing our tree canopy for generations to come. I encourage residents to take advantage of this opportunity and plant a tree that will benefit their families and community for years to come.” 

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 final event of the season will bring together partner organizations that include The Miami HEAT, Dade County Federal Credit Union, 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.  
 
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. Guests can also enjoy free cafecito courtesy of Café La Llave, adopt a pet from Miami-Dade County Animal Services, and swap old showerheads and incandescent lightbulbs for new high-efficiency showerheads and up to three energy-efficient LED bulbs, free of charge, courtesy of the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department, while supplies last. 
 
To learn more, including eligibility requirements and volunteer opportunities, visit the Adopt-a-Tree website or call 3-1-1.