The Bradford Pear became a popular ornamental plant for homeowners as it produces beautiful white flowers in the spring. However, while the Bradford Pear looks idyllic, the tree emits a foul odor. Due to their ability to reproduce with other varieties of pear trees, the Bradford Pear has been able to move into natural forests and replace the native plants that once lived in these areas. The Union County Wildlife Chapter aims to remove the invasive Bradford Pear trees and replace them with native tree species.

On October 22nd, Union County Wildlife Chapter will host the first Bradford Pear Exchange for Union County. The goal of the exchange is to combat the spread of this species and boost native tree populations. With assistance from the  Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteers of Union County and the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, the UC Wildlife Chapter has been able to purchase 250 trees of six different species (Serviceberry, American Hornbeam, Sweetbay Magnolia, Red Mulberry, Overcup Oak, and Shumard Oak) to provide to the residents of Union County.

In order to receive a tree, residents must first remove a Bradford Pear from their property. Photo evidence will be required on the day of the exchange. If assistance is needed for removal, contact a certified arborist. Heartwood Tree Services and Carolina Tree Care are offering a 15% discount for Bradford Pear tree removals participating in this program. Registration is required, and participants can register online.

To learn more about the project, please join the Union County Wildlife Chapter for their monthly meeting, September 8th at 6:30 PM at the Union County Agricultural.
For any additional questions and information call Conservation Education Specialist Breanna Walker at: (704) 324-9217.