WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Homeowners in parts of Wichita can receive a free tree, along with mulch and planting instructions, during a one-day giveaway event on Saturday, April 12.  The event, organized by local nonprofit ICT Trees, Inc., aims to help residents beautify their yards, lower energy costs, and contribute to a cooler neighborhood environment. Free tire disposal to be held next week ICT Trees, Inc., a Wichita-based nonprofit, will distribute 66 free trees to local homeowners as part of an initiative to increase the urban tree canopy in specific neighborhoods. Distribution will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Murdock Park, 1808 E. Murdock Street. Trees will be available to residents of ZIP code 67214 and parts of 67208 — the area between Hillside and Oliver and between Central and 17th Street North — who registered in advance through ICT Trees' online dashboard. The project is funded by a grant from Evergy. It is supported by local and national partners, including the Wichita Park Department’s Forestry Division, the Arbor Day Foundation, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Beta Kappa Omega Chapter, ICT Tree Huggers, and 316 United. The selected neighborhoods fall within areas identified by a NASA heat island study conducted for the City of Wichita. The study found that certain census tracts have significantly fewer trees, contributing to elevated temperatures and reduced environmental quality. Increasing tree coverage in these areas is intended to help mitigate those effects. Homeowners receiving a tree will also be provided with a bag of mulch and written planting and care instructions. Volunteers will be available to assist with loading trees and answering questions. Guidance will include watering tips, drought care, and a reminder to call 811 before digging. ICT Trees, Inc. was established in 2023 with the mission to expand and maintain the tree canopy in Wichita. According to the organization, increasing tree coverage can help reduce urban heat, lower energy costs, and improve overall neighborhood livability. As of this week, trees are still available for eligible residents. Registration can be completed online at: https://get.arborday.org/icttrees. ...read more read less