This free Girl Scout Tree Promise Program can be tied into different badges and can also be done at different times of the year.
As Girl Scout leaders, we’re always looking for meaningful activities that not only teach valuable skills but also instill a lifelong sense of responsibility and connection to the world around us. The Girl Scout Tree Promise program is one such opportunity—a hands-on, impactful initiative that brings the Girl Scout Law to life while helping our planet thrive.
The Girl Scout Tree Promise is a nationwide movement with a simple but powerful mission: to plant, protect, and honor trees. Whether your troop is Daisy or Ambassador, girls of all ages can take part in this environmental effort. It’s not just about putting a seedling in the ground—it’s about cultivating a deeper understanding of our natural world and the role we each play in caring for it.
Living the Girl Scout Law Through the Tree Promise
The values taught in the Girl Scout Law are at the heart of the Tree Promise:
- “Use resources wisely”: Planting trees is one of the most effective ways to fight climate change, reduce carbon in the atmosphere, and provide habitats for wildlife. Through the Tree Promise, girls learn how trees help clean the air and water, reduce heat, and support biodiversity. By caring for trees, they learn to appreciate and conserve natural resources.
- “Make the world a better place”: Every tree planted helps heal our planet. When your troop participates in the Tree Promise, girls see firsthand how their actions can lead to positive change. Whether it’s planting a single tree in their community or organizing a larger planting event, they gain confidence in their ability to make a difference.
- “Be a sister to every Girl Scout”: The Tree Promise is a collective effort. When your troop joins in, they become part of a movement that includes Girl Scouts across the country—and around the world. Working together toward a shared goal fosters a sense of unity and belonging.
- “Responsible for what I say and do”: Girls who take the Tree Promise commit to protecting and honoring trees, not just once but as an ongoing part of their lives. They take responsibility for the environment, learning how their daily choices—like reducing paper waste or supporting sustainable products—can protect forests for generations.
Beyond the Badge
The Tree Promise isn’t just a one-time project—it can spark a series of meaningful experiences for your troop. You can tie it into badge work, like Eco Learner (Daisies), Trees (Cadettes), or Eco Advocate (Ambassadors). You can plan nature hikes, partner with local parks, or even start a community tree nursery. The possibilities are endless, and the impact is lasting.
Plus, it’s a great way to get girls outside, working together, and feeling empowered. They’re not just learning about environmental issues—they’re becoming part of the solution.
You can find the Girl Scout Tree Program Activity Guide here.