MWRD to host Freedom Micro-Forest tree planting event to celebrate America 250

Promotional graphic for an event. The background is dark blue. At the top, centered text reads: “MWRD Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary.” Below this, three stylized trees appear. The trees are arranged left to right in red, white, and blue. Each tree has a dark trunk and multiple rounded layers forming the canopy. The white and blue trees have small star shapes patterned across the canopies. Decorative red, white, and blue stars are placed around the trees. To the left of the trees is the text “July 2.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago will commemorate America’s Semiquincentennial with a special tree‑planting initiative that honors the nation’s 250th anniversary while advancing the MWRD’s commitment to environmental stewardship. As part of this effort, the MWRD will plant 250 oak saplings on MWRD properties throughout 2026.

A public kick‑off event will take place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in front of the Calumet Water Reclamation Plant, 400 E. 130th St., Chicago. Community members, partners, and media are invited to attend. Shovels and gloves will be provided.

Since launching the Restore the Canopy program in 2016, the MWRD has distributed more than 100,000 free native tree saplings to residents, schools, and community organizations across the service area. Planting 250 oak saplings builds on this successful track record while supporting stormwater management, climate resilience, and healthier local ecosystems.

Learn more about the MWRD's Restore the Canopy tree program here.

Press Release

Events