Kentucky residents are being encouraged to help remove Bradford pear trees through the state’s Bradford Pear Bounty program. The effort is coordinated by the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, UK Forest Health Extension, participating county Extension offices, and the Kentucky Division of Forestry.
According to organizers, Bradford pear trees are considered an invasive species because they are not native to Kentucky and can spread aggressively, causing environmental and economic problems. Residents who remove a Bradford pear tree, document the removal with a photograph, and participate in a local bounty event can receive a free native tree as a replacement.
Several events are scheduled across the state, including locations in Boone, Christian, Estill, Fayette, McCracken, Scott, and Warren counties. Participants must follow the requirements of their local event to qualify for a replacement tree.