Callery pear

The Bradford pear is an invasive species that grows so quickly it can displace Missouri’s native wildlife. Local organizations are offering free native trees to Missourians who remove an invasive pear tree.

Missouri residents have until April 15 to register to receive a free noninvasive, native tree in exchange for cutting down a single Bradford pear tree in their yard. Pick up will be hosted at nearly a dozen locations across the state on April 23.

Experts say the plants on the list are invasive and can quickly cause ecological harm.