Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests
LEAF is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and enhancement of the urban forest. We offer programs that help you plant, care and give.
Plant
Our Backyard Tree Planting Program offers native trees and shrubs to property owners at a subsidized cost.
Blogs
On April 27, 2019 the sky was overcast, the wind was relentless and the temperature was cold enough to require multiple layers of clothing to step outside! It did not seem like a good day to plant trees. Yet, in spite of the inclement weather, the Richmond Hill community came out to plant native trees and shrubs in Meander Park. In fact, this planting event was among our most popular – with roughly 200 participants and 400 trees and shrubs planted!
We all know that trees produce oxygen and clean our air. But they do so much more! Residents of communities with increased tree coverage enjoy a multitude of health, social and economic benefits. So, how can we increase our tree canopy in order to enjoy these benefits? A neighbourhood’s canopy extends well beyond the trees lining the streets and growing in parks. Though sometimes overlooked, residential backyards hold great potential for growing our urban forest! Backyard trees add privacy, increase property value and help homeowners cut down on energy costs.
Ever heard of the term “stormwater runoff”? It refers to rainfall that does not seep into the ground and instead flows over the ground surface and into our sewer or drainage systems. In urban and suburban areas, where there is an abundance of sidewalks, roads and other paved areas, stormwater management is becoming an increasingly complicated and costly problem. But, trees can help! Not only are they are a cost-effective way to reduce flooding, they also provide countless co-benefits such as shade, air purification, beauty and privacy.
Events
Learn about the importance of urban trees and how to care for them on a guided tree tour through Wychwood Barns Park and the LEAF Learning Garden, followed by an optional hands-on tree care activity. Join us and go home with a free native shrub (while supplies last)!
Join us for an afternoon of tree planting in Meander Park, Richmond Hill, on May 26. Go home with your own native shrub to plant in your yard (while supplies last). All ages welcome for this family friendly event!
Join us for a morning of tree planting on May 25 at the Schomberg Community Farm. Go home with your own native shrub! All ages welcomed for this family friendly event!
