The Moore Soil and Water Conservation District is encouraging local residents to begin thinking about tree planting time.

"Planting trees can be your contribution to the environment," an agency news release said. "Prepare to plant your tree seedlings this winter! They enhance the beauty of landscape and provide many benefits.

"Trees also create windbreaks to help protect homes, farm buildings, feed lots and orchards from the cold winter winds and even provide a sound barrier from nearby highways. Erosion control is sometimes our biggest worry and trees help to reduce wind and water erosion."

The Moore Soil and Water Conservation District is now accepting orders for the 2011-2012 planting season. The best time to plant trees is December through March.

Orders can now be placed for trees to be picked up early December. Orders will continue as long as supplies last. Residents are urged to order early because some species sell out quickly.

There are six selections available: containerized longleaf, 60 cents each; kousa dogwood, 3 foot, $3; sugar maple, 2 foot, $2.50; yoshino cherry, 2 foot, $6; and yellow delicious and Arkansas black apple, $7.50. The fruit trees will need a cross pollinator. All seedlings are bare root.

To place an order, mail a check made payable to the Moore Soil and Water Conservation District, P.O. Box 908, Carthage, NC 28327. Enclose a note listing the kind and number of trees desired. Make sure to include your name, address and telephone number on your order.

Anyone needing more information can call (910) 947-5183, extension 3.