Learn about how to collect seeds and acorns needed to grown new trees with Maryland Department of Natural Resources Foresters. As part of the Maryland 5 Million Tree Initiative, native tree seeds are needed to meet the goal of growing and planting 5 million trees by 2031. During these collection events, all fruits/seeds will be sent to the Maryland State Tree Nursery to support future tree plantings around the State. ACWA is helping coordinate seed collection within our watersheds to support the 5 Million Tree Initiative and to raise awareness of the importance of planting native trees. Several collection events will be hosted throughout the year as we focus on priority native species.

Collections events for Redbuds seeds and acorns are scheduled as follows, but please keep in mind that the dates are tentative based on whether the seeds/acorns are ready for harvest. Acorns are particularly fickle on when they can be harvested, so if you are interested in helping, please sign up to be updated on exact timing.

• 9/21 - 3-6pm at Hagerstown City Park. Meet at Art Council Mansion upper parking lot on City Park Dr. (4pm is meet time for County Youth Advisory Council)

• 9/22, 1-3pm - White Oak acorns at Doub’s Wood’s Park, Maryland Ave. Meet at the MD Ave Parking lot.

• 9/29 (time to be decided) - Redbud seeds and Chinckapin Oak acorns at City Park. Meet at the City Park Drive Parking lot (south side by playgrounds).

• 10/7, 1 pm Redbud seed collection in connection with Tree planting at Smithsburg Lions Park.

Other collection events may be scheduled and will be updated here.

Register to help out with upcoming fall 2023 volunteer events, including these collection events on this form.