By BRIAN WALKER

Staff Writer

POST FALLS — Money may not grow on trees, but that doesn't mean trees lack value or aren't a hot item.

The 13th annual Tree Giveaway will be held on Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Q’emiln Park Boat Launch in Post Falls.

"The trees are free," said Kit Hoffer, city of Post Falls spokeswoman. "No residency proof or identification are required."

Preston Hill, Post Falls urban forester, said the event is the city of Post Falls Arbor Day celebration so it's preferred the trees go to Post Falls residents.

More than 2,600 trees will be handed out until 1 p.m. or until they are gone. Last year's event ended before 1 p.m. The trees are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and there is a limit of three per household.

"It's a good idea to show up early," said Hill, referring to the popularity of the event. "People show up as early as 7:30 a.m."

Hill said the trees are valued at an average of $30 each, making the donation worth more than $78,000.

Donations will be accepted for the Tree Trust Fund, which is used to plant trees in public locations, for education and grant matches. The event will be held regardless of the weather.

The tree and shrub selection includes flowering cherry varieties, birch, globe willow, dogwood, Rose of Sharon and hydrangea varieties.

"We want the trees to go to people who want them and will plant them," Hill said. "That's our top priority."

Mayor Ron Jacobson will open the event with the reading of the Arbor Day proclamation and acceptance of the City’s 2016 Tree City USA award.

The award is a designation from The Arbor Day Foundation for excellence in urban forestry management.

More than 30,000 trees have been given away at the event over the years, with the help and generosity of local volunteer groups and event sponsors.

An anonymous nursery made the tree donation that was secured by JUB Engineers and Pioneer Title.

Contributing sponsors are: Findlay Post Falls, Wilbur-Ellis, Starbucks, Boy Scouts of America, Cannon Hill Industries, Northland Nursery, Idaho Master Gardeners, Post Falls Lions Club, Super 1 Foods, Cooper Fabrication, River City Chiropractic, Specialty Tree Services and Tree Removal Services, Interstate Gas, Northwest Specialty Hospital and Northwest Plant Health Care/Bartlett Tree Experts.