Clark County is addressing the increasing heat by reopening its Community Canopy Project in collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation. This initiative offers residents a chance to plant one of 2,300 free, water-efficient trees to help combat the rising temperatures. The trees are intended to alleviate the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures due to heat absorption by buildings and pavement.
Priority for tree distribution will be given to residents in neighborhoods most affected by heat, as identified by recent mapping efforts. These areas lack sufficient tree canopy and green spaces, contributing to more intense heat experiences.
This move comes in response to the alarming rise in heat-related deaths, highlighted in a Las Vegas Review-Journal series, “A fatal forecast.” The series reported that the summer of 2024 was the hottest on record, with excessive heat contributing to at least 526 fatalities.
Previously, when Clark County offered free trees, the available 4,500 were claimed within 72 hours. Those interested in acquiring a tree this year are encouraged to visit ArborDay.org/ClarkCountyDES promptly, as supplies are expected to run out quickly, well before the May deadline.
