Blogs

You might think you know Kentucky coffeetree, honey locust and pawpaw, but are you aware these familiar trees hold a secret dating back to North America’s Ice Age? Their tough or oversized fruits evolved to be eaten and carried by massive mammals that no longer roam our landscapes. Keep reading to explore these lost partnerships and discover how echoes of that ancient world still appear in the trees around us today.

As a small and busy non-profit organization, we are very focused on our day-to-day activities, constantly evaluating and improving what we do and how we do it. Yet the “why” is usually what donors, volunteers and program participants care about most. Every so often it’s important to ask ourselves what we are trying to achieve and if our actions are aligned with our goals.

Over the past year, LEAF has been working with Housing York Inc. and York Region to bring more trees to several Housing York Inc. (HYI) communities. This pilot initiative is designed to increase the tree canopy, create inviting outdoor spaces and give residents a chance to shape their surroundings. Our Community Housing Stewardship Coordinator, Jessie, shares their thoughts on launching this initiative and how it made a difference in the lives of HYI residents.

If you're searching for a tree that's both unique and beautiful, consider the tenacious tamarack tree. This often-overlooked native species thrives across the Canadian landscape, offering elegance and ecological benefits throughout the year. Read on to learn more about this one-of-a-kind gem.