Let the birdwatching begin
(April 11, 2013, Toronto, ON – For immediate release) Each year approximately 50 million birds pass through the Greater Toronto Area and LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests) is helping residents build crucial habitat for them. LEAF’s subsidized Backyard Tree Planting Program, which has focused on getting the right tree in the right place since 1996, has expanded further by offering Native Garden Kits for songbirds.
“At LEAF our mission is to protect and improve all layers of the urban forest. Planting our Native Garden Kits and native trees can turn any yard into a bird-watcher’s paradise that migrating birds will remember to visit each year,” said Janet McKay, Executive Director at LEAF.
The Native Garden Kits offer an assortment of perennials and shrubs delivered right to the door, along with professional garden designs that make planting easy. Residents are encouraged to follow the plans or remix the designs to fit their space. The Native Garden Kits are available in two sizes: small, which includes 22 perennials and 2 shrubs for $125; and large, which includes 51 perennials and 4 shrubs for $235. The species range from wild bergamot to serviceberry shrubs and are selected for their high wildlife value. Bird-friendly native trees are also available through the program.
“As a partner in biodiversity protection and promotion, we’re excited to see LEAF offer this beneficial program,” said Barb Reuber, Vice President of Environment at Ontario Power Generation. “Yard by yard, tree by tree, their efforts are making a tremendous difference to the quality and well-being of our urban environments.”
Native trees and Garden Kits create important food and shelter corridors for migrating birds, and give residents an opportunity to support healthy ecosystems in their own yards. Beyond creating habitat, native trees, shrubs and perennials in urban settings remove pollution from air and water, reduce air temperature, and mitigate storm water runoff.
“LEAF’s Backyard Tree Planting Program advocates planting the right tree in the right place. We are pleased to support the program and to work with LEAF to protect and preserve our tree canopy,” said Karen Evans, Manager of Communications & Public Affairs at Toronto Hydro Electric-System Limited, another supporting partner.
Bookings are now open for spring consultations through LEAF’s Backyard Tree Planting Program, available to residents in Toronto and York Region. Native Garden Kits are also available for butterflies, shaded yards or driveway strips.
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. Since 1996 LEAF has helped citizens plant over 19,000 native trees and shrubs in their neighbourhoods. LEAF’s Backyard Tree Planting Program is supported by Ontario Power Generation, York Region, Live Green Toronto, the City of Markham, and Toronto Hydro Electric-System Limited. For more information, visit www.yourleaf.org or call 416-413-9244.
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LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests) is an incorporated, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection and improvement of the urban forest. Since 1996 LEAF has engaged citizens in urban forest stewardship through planting, education and training. For more information visit www.yourleaf.org.