Stockton residents have a chance to do something simple this spring that will make the city greener for decades: grab some gloves, bring a friend, and help plant trees.
Tree Stockton is hosting its 2nd Annual Arbor Day Community Tree Planting on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at American Legion Park (1859 N. Baker Street, Stockton)—and organizers say the goal is to plant 15+ Valley Oak trees across the park with the help of local volunteers.
According to Tree Stockton, the morning will begin with a short ceremony, then shift into hands-on planting throughout the park. To make it easy for everyone to participate, the City of Stockton will have the holes pre-dug and will provide shovels, stakes, and tree ties—so you can jump right in whether you’ve planted trees before or it’s your first time.
“This is a fun event for all ages,” wrote Tree Stockton’s Miguel Guillen in an invitation to the community, encouraging residents to come out, meet neighbors, and be part of something lasting.
Learn from a local arborist — and get your questions answered
One highlight of the event is a tree planting demonstration by local arborist Jeff Gamboni, giving volunteers a chance to learn proper techniques and ask questions about tree care—skills that can help trees thrive long after planting day.
Tree giveaways and a reason to register
Thanks to partners at West Coast Arborist, attendees will also have a chance to score a free tree for their own yard: the flyer notes that five lucky winners will receive a free 15-gallon tree. (That alone is a pretty good reason to show up—and register.)
What to bring and where to meet
Tree Stockton asks volunteers to:
-
Wear gloves and closed-toe shoes
-
Meet at the northeast corner of the park near the pump building
-
Expect refreshments
-
Donations are welcome to support Tree Stockton’s efforts
How to sign up
Organizers are asking community members to register to volunteer in advance (the flyer includes a QR code for sign-ups). You can also learn more at TreeStockton.org or reach out via [email protected].
If you’ve been looking for a positive way to spend a Saturday morning—one that gets you outside, connects you with the community, and leaves a real mark on Stockton—this is it. Those Valley Oaks will be providing shade, cleaner air, and a stronger urban canopy long after the shovels are put away.