Arkansas Moves STOP Program Planting to Spring
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is shifting the Shade Trees on Playgrounds program's application period and tree-planting ceremonies from fall to spring for the 2026-2027 school year.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Asthma
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The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is moving the application period and tree-planting ceremonies for its Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) program from fall to spring for the 2026-2027 school year. A virtual statewide workshop on Thursday, December 3 is required for schools seeking to apply.
Why it matters
The shift gives schools across Arkansas a defined path to participate in the program, which has operated for 25 years. Shade trees on playgrounds help protect children from excessive direct sunlight, which reduces their long-term risk of skin cancer.
The Department of Agriculture reports that more than 235 Arkansas schools have participated in STOP over 25 years, and selected schools receive up to five Arkansas-native shade trees. The number of schools chosen for the 2026-2027 cycle has not been announced.
The players
Arkansas Department of Agriculture
The state agency that runs the Shade Trees on Playgrounds program and oversees its application process and tree distribution across Arkansas.
The details
All Arkansas schools, playgrounds and educational facilities may participate, but a school must have someone attend the virtual workshop to apply. Everyone who attends receives a free three-gallon potted Arkansas-native tree, and selected schools receive planting materials, educational resources and help with planting ceremonies.
Timeline
25 years ago: The STOP program began in Arkansas.
Thursday, December 3: Virtual statewide STOP workshop held.
January 2027: Application period opens for selected schools.
Spring 2027: Tree-planting ceremonies scheduled.
Health Landscape
The Arkansas STOP program, which has run for 25 years, connects tree planting to sun-protection efforts aimed at lowering childhood skin cancer risk. The seasonal shift adjusts how that long-running state initiative is delivered to schools.
Schools that attend the December 3 virtual workshop can apply for the program and, if selected, receive native shade trees for their playgrounds. Attendees also receive a free three-gallon potted tree, giving schools a concrete, no-cost way to add sun protection to outdoor spaces.
The takeaway
Shade on school playgrounds is a practical, low-cost step toward reducing children's sun exposure. Schools interested in STOP should plan to send a representative to the December 3 workshop.
What happens next
The virtual STOP workshop takes place Thursday, December 3, and the application period opens in January 2027, with tree-planting ceremonies scheduled for spring 2027.
Further reading
For related coverage, see our Asthma section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Talk 103.9 & 1340.
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