La Mesa is partnering with Tree San Diego for a free community education event and tree giveaway next month, according to East County Magazine. The workshop is scheduled for 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at Highwood Park, 4200 Parks Ave.

The event will focus on the benefits of maintaining a healthy local tree canopy, including environmental, economic and community impacts. Eligible La Mesa residents can register in advance to receive a free 5-gallon tree to plant at home, with trees distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tree pickup will take place at the La Mesa Public Works facility, 8152 Commercial St. Residents must live in La Mesa and complete registration through the Tree San Diego events calendar to claim a tree.

For Santee residents, the La Mesa program is a nearby example of how East County cities are using tree-canopy projects to address shade, heat and neighborhood livability. Tree San Diego works with local governments and community groups across the region on urban forestry efforts.

More information and registration details are available through East County Magazine and Tree San Diego.