Every spring, communities across Michigan come together for a long‑standing tradition rooted in conservation, stewardship, and local action: Annual Conservation District tree sales. These sales are more than seasonal events, they are community‑led reforestation efforts that have shaped Michigan’s landscape for generations. If you want to beautify your space and plant some Michigan native plants and trees, your local conservation district is a great resource.
A Long History of Reforestation in Michigan
Tree sales have been a cornerstone of Michigan Conservation District’s work since the early days of the conservation movement in the 1930s and 1940s. In response to widespread deforestation, soil erosion, and declining wildlife habitat, Conservation Districts began partnering with landowners and communities to restore forests and protect natural resources.
What started as small, local efforts have grown into one of Michigan’s most impactful grassroots reforestation programs. Year after year, Conservation Districts help residents plant trees that stabilize soil, improve water quality, create wildlife habitat, support working lands, and enhance Michigan’s forests for future generations.
A Staggering Impact: Over 1.3 Million Trees in One Year
In 2025 alone, Michigan Conservation Districts distributed an incredible 1,338,293 trees throughout the state. Each of those trees represents a commitment by a landowner, family, school, or community member to invest in Michigan’s natural future.
Collectively, these plantings help:
- Improve soil health and reduce erosion
- Protect lakes, rivers, and streams
- Support wildlife habitat and biodiversity
- Strengthen working forests and farms
- Build climate resilience at the local level
Trees That Meet Local Needs
No two Conservation Districts are exactly alike, and neither are their tree sales. Species availability is carefully selected to meet the unique environmental needs of each community.
Many districts offer:
- Conifers for windbreaks, timber, and year-round cover
- Wildlife habitat trees and shrubs that provide food and shelter
- Species suited for reforestation, conservation plantings, and residential landscapes
By tailoring offerings locally, districts ensure that trees sold are well-suited to Michigan’s diverse soils, climates, and conservation priorities.
Why Buy Local from a Conservation District?
Purchasing from a Conservation District tree sale means more than taking home seedlings. It means:
- Supporting locally led conservation in your community
- Buying species selected specifically for Michigan soils and climate
- Accessing trusted local expertise on planting and care
- Reinvesting proceeds directly back into conservation education and services
Every purchase helps strengthen conservation work right where you live.
More Than Just Trees
Many Conservation Districts offer more than trees and shrubs during their sales. Depending on the district, you may also find:
- Fruit trees and vegetable plants
- Native flowers and pollinator plants
- Field guides and educational materials
- Tree protectors and planting supplies
- Special edition Conservation t-shirts, limited printing especially for tree sales
These additional items help support successful plantings while promoting conservation education and pride in locally led stewardship.
New to planting trees or shrubs? Your local Conservation District can help you select the right species, offer planting tips, and provide guidance to help your trees thrive.
These additional items help support successful plantings while promoting conservation education and pride in locally led stewardship.
Find a Tree Sale Near You
Looking for a Conservation District tree sale in your area? Visit MACD’s events page at www.macd.org/events to find listings from districts across the state.
If you don’t see a tree sale listed for your local district, we encourage you to reach out directly to your Conservation District for more information. Conservation districts are happy to answer questions, share upcoming opportunities, or help you find the right resources for your property.
Seasonal reminder: Tree sales typically take place in the spring and fall, and popular species often sell out quickly. Checking early helps ensure you get the trees and plants best suited for your needs.
Planting for the Future
When you purchase from a Conservation District tree sale, you’re doing more than buying a tree, you’re supporting locally led conservation, strengthening Michigan’s natural resources, and helping grow a healthier landscape for generations to come.
From rural farms to city neighborhoods, Conservation District tree sales continue to prove that small actions, taken together, can make a lasting difference across Michigan.
Interested in supporting your local Conservation District? Explore upcoming events, workshops, and tree sales at www.macd.org/events.