(March 16, 2016) This spring, LEAF, with the support of the Regional Municipality of York, is encouraging all residents to plant trees in their yard. Neighbourhood trees provide many benefits to residents, including reduced energy costs, increased property value, privacy, and many preventative health benefits. By casting shade, filtering pollutants from the air, and improving water quality, tree planting in yards improves quality of life for all residents.
In York Region, damage caused by the invasive Emerald Ash Borer has impacted the urban canopy. The Region is committed to restoring trees lost to the destructive Emerald Ash Borer and is working in partnership with LEAF to offer a subsidized Backyard Tree Planting Program for landowners. The program is also supported by the Markham Trees for Tomorrow Fund and Ontario Power Generation.
“Helping residents plant the right trees in the right places and educating them about tree care are the top priorities of our program,” says Janet McKay, Executive Director of LEAF. “We build long-lasting relationships with residents – we see them as partners in this program, not simply customers.”
LEAF’s Full Service Backyard Tree Planting Program ensures that new trees have the best possible chance to thrive by providing residents with:
● 45 minute site consultation with a LEAF arborist to choose appropriate species and locations
● 5 to 8 foot tall native tree
● Full planting service
● Tree care guide
● Follow up tree care advice by email/phone
All for one low subsidized price of approximately $200 per tree!
A Do-It-Yourself version of the program is also available to residents who wish to plant trees in their front or side yards, or who want to plant trees on their own. Native shrubs and garden kits are also available.
SPECIAL OFFER: For a limited time, LEAF is offering an additional rebate on trees ordered this spring in York Region! From March 29 - June 3, residents can receive an additional $50 rebate off the purchase of a tree, or $5 off shrubs. Made possible through a special project with the York Catholic District School Board and supported by the Government of Ontario, the number of rebates available is limited and they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Janet McKay Melissa Williams
Executive Director Program Manager
416-413-9244 x17 (office) 647-883-5777 (cell) 416-413-9244 x11 (office) 647-832-5935 (cell)
janet@yourleaf.org melissa@yourleaf.org
LEAF is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection and improvement of the urban forest and engages citizens in urban forest stewardship through planting, education and training. Learn more at www.yourleaf.org
York Region’s Greening Strategy encourages and supports stewardship and environmental enhancement on private land to protect and enhance natural heritage for present and future generations. Learn more at www.york.ca
Ontario Power Generation has planted more than 6.3 million trees and shrubs since 2000, and supports family-focused biodiversity events. Learn more at opg.com
