Bradford pear tree buy-back program in Hannibal begins Wednesday

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal residents with Bradford pear trees on their property have the option to cut down their trees and receive a free, non-invasive tree at a “buy-back” event on April 18.

Starting Wednesday, March 15, participants may register for the program at www.moinvasives.org/2023/02/15/pearbuy-back-2023/. To qualify, people need to submit a photo of themselves next to the tree that has been cut down to receive one replacement tree. After submission, participants can pick up the new tree from 3-6 p.m. April 18 in Central Park.

The Bradford pear, also known as the Callery pear, can create unpleasant smells. More important, it is invasive and destructive to other plants and animals. It multiplies quickly and crowds out Missouri native plants. Kristy Trevathan, tree board president, said no residency requirement is necessary for the “buy-back” program, but only registered participants will be eligible for a free tree.

The event is sponsored by the Hannibal Tree Board, Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, Missouri Invasive Plant Council, Forrest Keeling Nursery and Missouri Department of Conservation.

For more information, contact Trevathan at kristy.trevathan@prestigerealty.net or by calling 573-248-6581.