Byram residents and public spaces can get free native trees through a new town program backed by federal and state forestry grants.
The initiative, called Byram Branches, targets two zones in Byram where tree canopy covers less than 30% of the land, pavement covers much of the ground, and residents face elevated risk from flooding and extreme heat. The Greenwich Conservation Commission is leading the effort with partners including Parks & Recreation, the Greenwich Tree Conservancy, the Byram Neighborhood Association, Friends of Byram Park, the Byram Pollinator Pathway and the Town Tree Warden.
Funding comes from the USDA Forest Service Trees for Communities Grant, administered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The town's program page does not list a total dollar figure for the grant.
Why Byram
The two priority zones were identified using DEEP's Urban Forestry Screening Tool and the Tree Equity Scorecard, according to the Byram Branches FAQ. Both tools flagged the areas for low canopy, high impervious surface and vulnerability to climate hazards.
The program aims to reduce heat-island effects, lower flood risk, support biodiversity and build long-term stewardship through resident education.
What residents get
Each private property in the eligible zones qualifies for one free tree. Trees can also be planted on public property such as schools, parks, libraries and along roadways, with locations guided by the Town Tree Warden.
Thirteen native species are on the list: Red Maple, American Holly, Redbud, American Linden, American Sycamore, Shadbush/Serviceberry, Blackgum, Chestnut Oak, Shagbark Hickory, Hackberry, Swamp White Oak, Northern Red Oak and Sweetgum. Final availability depends on nursery stock and site conditions.
Trees come in small-to-medium containers or larger balled-and-burlapped saplings. Free installation by a licensed, insured landscaper contracted through the grant is included. Homeowners who prefer to plant themselves may do so.
A Conservation Commission team visits each property to check sun exposure, soil and drainage before matching a species to the site. The commission calls this a "Right Tree, Right Place" approach.
How to sign up
The first round of signups closed Aug. 15. A second round opens in early spring 2027. Residents interested in getting on the list can contact the Conservation Commission at [email protected] or 203-622-6461.
Applicants must submit site photos and an online form, sign a private landowner agreement and commit to a stewardship pledge. Each tree will be monitored for health by the homeowner and the project team for two years after planting.
Renters can participate with their property owner's approval.
No minimum or maximum lot size applies.
Properties outside the two grant-funded zones but still within Byram are eligible through a parallel program run by the Conservation Commission and Greenwich Tree Conservancy. Before any planting, participants must call 811 to mark underground utilities and confirm the location is safe.
