The City of Foley marked its 45th year as a Tree City USA community by giving away more than 700 trees to residents and honoring two dedicated public servants during its annual Arbor Day celebration.

The event took place Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market, where volunteers distributed 720 trees in three-gallon containers to local residents.

Tree Giveaway Supports a Greener Foley

This year’s giveaway featured a variety of popular and hardy species, including:

  • Summer red maple

  • Green giant arborvitae

  • Live oak

  • Crape myrtles

  • Nuttall oak

  • Several varieties of magnolia

The annual event is part of Foley’s ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing the city’s tree canopy.

Ryan Peek, coastal programs manager for the Alabama Forestry Commission, praised Foley’s long-standing dedication.

“Foley is in their 45th year as a Tree City USA. That is incredible,” Peek said. “Congratulations to the city leaders, the Beautification Board, and everybody who’s behind the scenes and on the front lines making that work. You’ve got a really unique town.”

Memorial Trees Honor Two Public Servants

As part of the ceremony, the city dedicated two larger summer red maples as memorial trees in honor of City Councilman Richard “Dick” Dayton and former Marketing Director LaDonna Hinesley, both of whom passed away in 2025.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich recognized Dayton as a passionate and dedicated public servant.

“He was in it for the right reason,” Hellmich said. “He represented his folks well, and he was very passionate about what he did. He loved the city, and with all his business background, he really pushed us.”

The mayor also reflected on Hinesley’s lasting impact on the community. As Foley’s first marketing director, she helped establish and grow the city’s Marketing Department and played a key role in expanding the city’s museums and Welcome Center.

“She helped preserve local history and strengthen community engagement,” Hellmich said. “She will be remembered for her kind heart, her quiet strength and her steady commitment to the people and places that she loved most.”

Landmark Trees Recognized

During the celebration, the city also recognized two live oak trees that will be added to Foley’s Landmark Tree list.

Josh Roberts, vegetation management superintendent for Riviera Utilities, said the Landmark Tree Program helps raise awareness and preserve mature and noteworthy trees throughout the city.

Trees may qualify if they are more than 100 years old, rare or uncommon, recognized as champion trees for their species, or associated with a historic event or landmark.

  • A live oak on property owned by James Shoots measures 83 inches in diameter.

  • A live oak on property owned by Brad Stansbury measures 57 inches in diameter.

Community Partners Make Event Possible

Riviera Utilities co-hosted the Arbor Day celebration. Additional participants included the Alabama Forestry Commission, Baldwin County Master Gardeners, certified arborists and members of Boy Scout Troop 77, who assisted with distributing the trees.

Through continued partnerships and strong community support, Foley remains committed to protecting its natural resources and ensuring a greener future for generations to come.