Tree Canada and LCBO plant $10,000 grant in Welland to help replace trees lost to disease

An area along Kingsway that saw the removal of approximately 250 trees due to Emerald Ash Borer will begin a rejuvenation of its tree canopy thanks to a $10,000 grant from Tree Canada and the LCBO’s Spirit of Sustainability initiative.

The grant allows the City of Welland to plant 20 native tree species along the canal, primarily in the location of Kingsway and Glenwood Parkway. This project area is used for many summer recreational events, including international rowing competitions.

“Increasing canopy in Welland is important to the Community Services - Parks and Forestry Division,” said Dave Steven, manager of parks, forestry, cemeteries, operations, and development. “By improving our park green spaces through canopy replacement, it provides residents with an area that is more inviting and cooler for recreation and relaxation, plus they provide habitat and food for animals.”

City staff plant 300 to 350 trees annually to beautify residential and park spaces as part of the City’s canopy replacement strategy.

“Each year, Tree Canada’s Community Tree Grants help support schools, community groups, Indigenous communities and municipalities across Canada to increase their green infrastructure through the planting of trees and shrubs,” says Nicole Hurtubise, CEO, Tree Canada. “Thanks to the contribution of partners like LCBO’s Spirit of Sustainability initiative, we are able to take meaningful steps to increase Canada’s tree canopy and help grow better places to live in communities like the City of Welland.”

The City is looking for five to 10 volunteers to join Tree Canada and the City as they plant and mulch the new trees. The City will supply all volunteers with shovels, gloves, and other necessary equipment. Planting occurs on Friday, October 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact parksandforestry@welland.ca.

Tree Canada is the only national non-profit organization dedicated to planting and nurturing trees in rural and urban environments, in every province across the country.

Tree Canada helps to grow Canada’s tree canopy through their programs, research, and engagement efforts and by offering grants to communities and schools. Learn more about Tree Canada by visiting their website www.treecanada.ca.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Dave Steven
Manager of Parks, Forestry, Cemeteries, Operations & Development
905-735-1700 x3021
dave.steven@welland.ca