Tree planting has never been more important in our neck of the woods. As you’ve heard us say before, across York Region, hundreds of thousands of mature ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) are at risk of dying due to the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), an invasive insect that attacks and kills all North American species of ash. For this reason, we are excited to announce that starting this summer, residents of East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King and Whitchurch-Stouffville – the northernmost municipalities of the Region – will now have access to our full service Backyard Tree Planting Program!
Our full service Backyard Tree Planting Program (previously available only to residents of southern and central York Region and the City of Toronto) provides homeowners with an easy and convenient way to get expert advice on beautifying their yards while simultaneously planting native trees and shrubs that are beneficial to the environment. It includes a consultation with an arborist and planting service. And it’s all available at a subsidized rate!
For the past three years, LEAF has offered a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) version of the Backyard Tree Planting Program to all residents of York Region and it will continue to be available to residents in addition to the full service program. The program provides the participant with an online workshop and telephone or email correspondence rather than an in-person visit with a LEAF arborist. Participants then receive their trees and shrubs delivered right to their door.
At LEAF, we love trees for so many different reasons. Healthy urban trees provide preventative health care benefits through shade, filtered air and cleaner waterways. When planted strategically, they also reduce energy costs, increase property value and offer privacy. Trees also provide food and shelter for birds, butterflies and other wildlife, supporting our urban ecosystems. So why not plant one in your yard this fall? Contact us today to book a consultation through our Backyard Tree Planting Program.
The program expansion is made possible through funding from our amazing supporters: The Regional Municipality of York and its Greening Strategy, the City of Markham and its Trees for Tomorrow Program and Ontario Power Generation and its Biodiversity Program!
LEAF’s Backyard Tree Planting Program is supported by the York Region, Ontario Power Generation and the City of Markham’s Trees for Tomorrow Program. Melissa Williams is the Acting Program Manager at LEAF.