Governor Hochul announces major statewide effort as 1,650 trees are delivered to municipalities and agencies to advance New York’s 25 million trees program

New York – New York State took another visible step toward its long-term environmental restoration goals this week, as Governor Kathy Hochul announced the distribution of 1,650 trees to municipalities, state agencies and public entities across the state. The delivery—organized through the New York Power Authority’s 2025 Tree Power program—marks the largest single-year allocation since the initiative began more than three decades ago. Officials say the milestone reflects both rising environmental needs and a growing statewide commitment to expand green space, improve air quality and strengthen resilience in communities large and small.

The announcement, made public by the Governor’s office, emphasized that this year’s program places a stronger focus on disadvantaged areas where additional greenery is expected to have immediate public health benefits. With 49 low-cost energy and energy-efficiency customers receiving trees, the effort stretches far beyond beautification. It is part of a broader strategy to support New York’s ambitious pledge to plant 25 million trees by 2033—an effort introduced in the 2024 State of the State Address and now gaining momentum in multiple regions.

Governor Hochul underscored the importance of this ongoing investment in natural infrastructure. “Tree planting and reforestation are essential for enhancing New York State’s environmental health and resilience, while also safeguarding public well-being,” Governor Hochul said. “We are proud to support these communities that are contributing to our statewide sustainability goals and improving public health in their own neighborhoods. The Tree Power program not only boosts sustainability but also promotes equity by providing critical resources to underserved areas.”

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For decades, local governments and public institutions have relied on the Tree Power program to expand tree coverage around schools, parks, government buildings and community hubs. But this year’s distribution stands apart, not only because of the record-breaking number of trees but also because of the expanded financial incentives. NYPA provided a one-for-one match for tree purchases up to $5,000, which motivated many municipal customers to place larger orders. More than 900 trees were donated through the match alone, a total that officials say would have been lower without this year’s targeted incentives.

The program went further by offering a two-for-one match to customers planting in disadvantaged communities, an approach designed to bring tree equity to areas where canopy coverage has historically been limited. These locations often experience higher temperatures, lower air quality and reduced access to shaded outdoor space. Increasing tree coverage, even modestly, can improve recreation space, help filter pollutants and reduce rainwater runoff.

NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll noted the many layers of benefit tied to the program. “Power Authority customers and surrounding communities receive significant economic and environmental benefits when they plant trees, including improved building energy efficiency, support for native biodiversity, and hardening the environment against weatherization,” Driscoll said. “The Power Authority’s Tree Power program promotes sustainability, environmental stewardship and community engagement, and this year’s record of 1,650 trees in nearly 50 communities is a strong show of progress.”

Delivery dates for the trees vary by region, but recipients have been encouraged to plant quickly to ensure healthy growth and seasonal success. Many municipalities have already decided where their new trees will go, and the ideas stretch across a wide range of local priorities. Some town leaders intend to expand the tree canopy in heavily used public parks, while school districts plan to plant trees around playgrounds and athletic fields to increase shade and create more inviting outdoor learning spaces. Several state agencies, meanwhile, expect to plant along roadways to improve scenery and reduce the impact of stormwater runoff.

Although the program now operates under its modern banner, Tree Power has a long history. Created in 1992, it was devised as a way to strengthen New York State’s native habitat and promote biodiversity while supporting cost-conscious energy customers. Each participating customer works with NYPA representatives to identify tree species suitable for local conditions – taking factors such as temperature patterns, soil type and long-term maintenance into account.

One of the major ecological benefits of planting trees, according to environmental experts who have advised the program over the years, is the role trees play in stormwater management. Tree roots help absorb runoff that might otherwise flow into streets or drainage systems, lowering flood risk. Trees also provide natural climate control, creating shade during the summer and windbreaks in the winter. For many public buildings, these small changes lead to lower heating and cooling costs over time.

NYPA Sustainability Program Manager Cari Ficken emphasized how strongly local communities rely on Tree Power’s continued support. “The Tree Power program actively supports the sustainability goals of our customers, who are often the very entities invested in helping keep New York State green and making it a nicer, more environmentally pleasing place to live,” Ficken said. “In addition to helping communities to achieve their energy goals, lower carbon emissions and reduce power costs, the Tree Power program helps enhance the aesthetics of neighborhoods and public spaces and contributes to overall quality of life in New York communities.”

In recent years, the cumulative impact of the program has become increasingly measurable. Since 2016, more than 9,700 trees have been planted statewide under the Tree Power banner. Officials estimate that these trees have already sequestered more than 500 metric tons of carbon emissions and generated more than $2 million in combined energy savings and quality-of-life benefits. The environmental return is expected to climb dramatically as the trees mature and new plantings continue each year.

This year’s distribution has reached every corner of the state. More than 20 recipients are located in Westchester County alone, including Port Chester, Mount Vernon, the County of Westchester, Irvington, Scarsdale, Greenburgh, White Plains, Pelham Manor, Tuckahoe, Croton, Larchmont and New Rochelle. Specific neighborhoods in the Village of Ossining, Sleepy Hollow and White Plains qualified for disadvantaged-community incentives.

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Beyond Westchester, trees are being planted in communities in Western New York, the Finger Lakes region and the Capital Region. Schools in Niagara Wheatfield, areas in Salamanca and Westfield, and transportation properties managed by NYSDOT and the State University of New York have all been included. Even the New York State Thruway system will see additional plantings along selected stretches. NYPA also plans to plant 22 trees on property surrounding the St. Lawrence–FDR Power Project in Massena.

NYSDOT Regional Director of Operations Michael Pawloski said the agency already has a plan for their portion of the trees. “NYSDOT will plant the 78 trees procured through the Tree Power Program on Earth Day in 2026. This program does not just provide trees. It provides cleaner air, stronger ecosystems and healthier tomorrows.”

With the state’s broader 25 million tree initiative underway, the Governor’s office has introduced tools to help residents participate. A publicly available tracking platform allows New Yorkers to log trees they plant at home, at work or in community gardens, ensuring the statewide tally remains accurate and up to date. Officials say the tool also serves as a public reminder of how collective action—thousands of small efforts spread across many communities—can contribute to a larger environmental transformation.

As planting begins for the 2025 distribution, state leaders are framing this year’s success as evidence of New York’s readiness to scale its environmental objectives. With larger community involvement, expanded incentives and a stronger focus on equity, the Tree Power program is positioned to play a major role in strengthening both the natural landscape and the public spaces that millions of New Yorkers use every day.