Bradford Pear Bounty Exchange Program Coming to Columbia

Residents can swap out invasive Bradford pear trees for free native replacements.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Bradford Pear Bounty, a partnership between the South Carolina Forestry Commission and Clemson University, is coming to Columbia on March 14. The program allows homeowners to remove and replace up to five Bradford pear trees with free native tree replacements, as Bradford pears are known to break easily during storms and contribute to the spread of the invasive Callery pear.

Why it matters

Bradford pear trees have become a major invasive species problem in the Southeast, crowding out native plants and trees. This program aims to encourage residents to remove these problematic trees from their properties and replace them with more environmentally-friendly native species.

The details

The Bradford Pear Bounty exchange event will take place on March 14 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 2404 Main St. in Columbia. Homeowners can bring in up to five Bradford pear trees and receive an equal number of free replacement native trees through the program.

  • The Bradford Pear Bounty exchange event will be held on March 14, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The players

South Carolina Forestry Commission

A state agency that works to protect, promote, and enhance the state's forest resources.

Clemson University

A public research university located in Clemson, South Carolina that is partnering on the Bradford Pear Bounty program.

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What’s next

Residents interested in participating in the Bradford Pear Bounty exchange should visit the program's website to learn more details and register in advance.

The takeaway

This program provides an opportunity for Columbia residents to take an active role in removing an invasive species from their community and replace it with more environmentally-friendly native trees, helping to improve the local ecosystem.