National Tree Day Celebration Event in York Region | LEAF | Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests

With over 700,000 ash trees in York Region’s urban areas at risk of infestation and death due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), planting new trees is more important than ever. This year on National Tree Day, we visited the home of Markham resident David Susilo, who is doing his part to help our urban forest by planting a tree through LEAF’s Backyard Tree Planting Program.

Mr. Susilo and representatives from funding partners the Regional Municipality of York, the City of Markham and Ontario Power Generation were in attendance to partake in the festivities and share their enthusiasm for the urban forest.

National Tree Day

Before we planted the majestic Freeman maple tree in David’s backyard, our partners said a few words about why they support the Backyard Tree Planting Program and how our work at LEAF helps them to achieve their broader environmental goals. Below is a short video from the day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlY7nYeBxYk

As part of its Greening Strategy, the Regional Municipality of York has a mandate to encourage and support stewardship and environmental enhancement on private land through tree planting. Ian Buchanan, Manager, Natural Heritage and Forestry for the Regional Municipality of York spoke about how the Region has been working cooperatively with LEAF to offer the Backyard Tree Planting Program here since 2008.

Planting a Freeman maple

Ward 6 Councillor Alan Ho and Nory Takata, Parks Planner, were on hand from the City of Markham, which supports LEAF through its Trees for Tomorrow Fund. Councillor Ho spoke about the urgent need to plant new trees in the City to replace those that have been or will be lost due to EAB infestation.

Kathryn Peck / Ontario Power Generation

Kathryn Peck, Corporate Relations and Communications for Ontario Power Generation (OPG), spoke about OPG’s commitment to protecting biodiversity and reducing the impact of their operations on the environment. OPG supports the Backyard Tree Planting Program as well as our educational programs including tree tours, public presentations and workshops through its Biodiversity Program.

David Susilo watering a tree

With the support of our wonderful partners, we are able to help homeowners like David get expert advice and native trees that are well-suited to the conditions in their yard, all at an affordable price. 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. This beautiful maple will be enjoyed by its owner for years to come, and will help to improve the well-being of the whole community!

To find out how you can get a tree for your own yard, check out LEAF’s Backyard Tree Planting Program!

The Backyard Tree Planting Program is supported by Ontario Power Generation, York Region, Ontario Trillium Foundation, The City of Markham and Toronto Hydro.