Say Goodbye to Bradford Pears, Hello to Native Trees

Remove a Callery pear tree from your property and the Kansas Forest Service will reward you with a free native tree as a replacement.

Through the program, Kansas residents can receive one free tree by signing up and providing proof that they have removed a Callery pear tree. Eligible varieties include popular cultivars such as ‘Bradford,’ ‘Cleveland Select,’ and ‘Aristocrat.’

The Kansas Forest Service is encouraging residents to take action as soon as possible to help limit the spread of this invasive species. While Callery pear trees were once widely planted for their rapid growth, symmetrical shape and spring blooms, they have since proven to be problematic across Kansas and much of the Midwest.

Originally introduced from Asia, Callery pear trees spread aggressively beyond landscaped areas. Birds consume the small fruit and disperse the seeds into fields, ditches and natural areas, where the trees quickly establish dense thickets. These thickets crowd out native plants, reduce biodiversity and disrupt local ecosystems that wildlife depend on.

In addition to their environmental impact, Callery pear trees are structurally weak. Their branches are prone to splitting during storms, creating safety hazards and increasing maintenance concerns for homeowners.

Any Callery pear trees documented and removed in 2025 or 2026 are eligible for the 2026 replacement events. To participate, residents must provide a photo of the tree before removal and a second photo of the stump, or submit a bill from an arborist confirming the work. The program does not cover the cost of tree removal.

The replacement event will take place Tuesday, May 12, from 3 to 6 p.m. in Wichita. Tree species are selected based on what grows best in the region and availability. All trees will be provided in 3-gallon pots, typically measuring about one-half inch in diameter and 3 to 4 feet tall, making them easy to transport in most cars or SUVs.

In 2026, the available replacement species include:

Bur Oak

Kentucky Coffeetree

Eastern Redbud

Serviceberry

Sargent Crabapple

The Kansas Forest Service will make every effort to provide participants with their preferred species, though availability is first-come, first-served. Trees are limited to one per household.

Visit www.kansasforests.org, click on “Programs” for more information.