Who: City of Columbia and Columbia Green
What: The City of Columbia in partnership with Columbia Green is proud to announce the fourth educational event as part of their “Beat the Heat” initiative.
Now in its second year, the Beat the Heat initiative aims to plant thousands of new shade trees on private property throughout Columbia to address rising urban heat and to help to restore our urban canopy, which suffered a 22% decrease over the past 20 years, primarily due to development on private property. Previously funded through a federal grant, the program is now funded entirely by private and corporate donations to Columbia Green, a nonprofit that exists to improve and protect the natural beauty of greater Columbia and promote a healthy environment for all its citizens. During the 2024-2025 planting season, Columbia Green and the City of Columbia distributed almost 1,250 free shade trees to property owners in greater Columbia.
During this event, participants will receive information about:
- How to apply to receive up to three free trees
- How to select, site, plant and care for their trees to ensure their survival
The event is free of charge and will include light refreshments. Columbia Green encourages all interested property owners to attend.
Attendees are required to RSVP by filling out a short form at: https://columbiagreen.org/beattheheat
WHEN: Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Earlewood Park, 1113 Recreation Drive, Columbia, SC 29203.
About Beat the Heat
Beat the Heat is a collaborative effort between Columbia Green and the City of Columbia to address rising temperatures and enhance Columbia’s green canopy by planting shade trees across the city. These trees will improve air quality, provide cooling shade, help with stormwater runoff, and promote environmental sustainability. Trees are offered to eligible property owners at no cost. Columbia Green and the City of Columbia are committed to enhancing urban forestry and helping local residents combat the effects of urban heat islands.
About Columbia Green: Founded in 1984, Columbia Green is a nonprofit organization located in Columbia, SC. We serve the greater Columbia area which encompasses both Richland and Lexington counties. Our mission is to improve and protect the natural beauty of greater Columbia by promoting sustainable plantings, preserving trees and green-spaces, and educating the public about the environment. Learn more about Columbia Green and our impact by visiting www.columbiagreen.org.