In 2026, the City is planting 800 trees on City-owned property, with about 1,400 trees also available to plant on private property.
The City says that community residents can make a significant difference by participating in this program.
Students in the local school divisions had the first opportunity to secure a tree as per the grant application, before the remainder are available to the public.
“This initiative is about more than planting trees—it’s about investing in the future of our community,” City of Medicine Hat Manager of Parks Orlando Whetter said in a statement from the City.
“By working together with residents, students, and families, we’re collectively strengthening our urban tree canopy, enhancing our beautiful neighbourhoods, and leaving a lasting legacy.”
The public will be able to pick up trees over three days at the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede grounds, while supplies last.
They will be located west of Higdon Hall from May 21-23. Pick on Thursday is noon to 5 p.m., Friday is 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one tree per person, but more than one allowed per household.
Eight different tree species will be available for participants to choose from and have been determined suitable for Medicine Hat’s growing climate.
The City says that if properly planted and cared for, they will provide shade for residents and habitats for birds and pollinators for decades to come.
These include the Hot Wings Tatarian Maple, Bur Oak, Ohio Buckeye, Greenspire Linden, Bailey’s Select Schubert, American Elm, Tower Poplar, and Brandon Elm.
When on-site, anyone who picks up a tree will complete a registration form, confirming they received the tree and will plant and care for it.
Parks staff will also provide tree planting and care instructions.
Each tree will come in a five-gallon container pot and have a stem between five and six feet tall.
The City recommends ideally using a truck or a securely covered trailer to transport the trees home.
They add that the trees may be transportable within smaller SUVs or cars.
Residents with additional questions can contact the Parks team at parks@medicinehat.ca or 403-529-8333.