Toronto, ON – August 21, 2025 - Over the past week, youth passionate about Toronto’s urban forest organized and led public tree tours in Downsview Park in Toronto and Jack Goodlad Park in Scarborough. Both parks are located within Neighbourhood Improvement Areas (NIAs), designated by the City of Toronto as equity-deserving and historically underserved. Nearly 70 community members participated in the tours, where they learned about the value of a healthy urban forest and how to identify native tree and shrub species. Free native shrubs were distributed to help increase canopy cover and support biodiversity in the surrounding neighbourhoods. At the Scarborough event, the Scarborough Environmental Association also provided free bike repair services, offering an additional way for residents to connect with local green initiatives.

The youth who led the tours are participants in a free, four-month training and mentorship program offered by local non-profit LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests). The Young Urban Forest Leaders (YUFL) program supports Toronto residents aged 18 to 29 by providing hands-on learning and skill-building opportunities in arboriculture and urban forestry. The program prioritizes the inclusion of individuals who are underrepresented in these fields, including but not limited to women, non-binary people, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and racialized communities.

Since 2015, 180 YUFL participants have reached over 1750 community members through educational events and helped distribute more than 3,100 free native shrubs. Program graduates gain valuable skills and build meaningful connections to both the urban forest and their communities. They also explore potential career paths and connect with professionals in the field. Many participants report a positive impact on their professional development and go on to pursue further education or employment in the urban forest sector.

The YUFL program is funded in part by the City of Toronto's Urban Forestry Grants and Incentives Program.

 

QUOTES

“I am continually impressed by the dedication and passion these young leaders demonstrate in advancing urban forestry. Their commitment over the past months has not only enhanced their own development but also strengthened our collective relationship with the natural environment. I look forward to witnessing their continued growth and future contributions.”

  • Brian Millward, Community Programs Manager, LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests)

“We have been a proud supporter of the YUFL program for several years. Engaging diverse youth from across Toronto with meaningful training and mentorship opportunities in urban forestry contributes significantly towards the longevity and future of our urban forest. Best wishes to this year’s graduates!”

  • Jennifer Gibb, Supervisor, Strategic Tree Planting Projects, City of Toronto

 

PARTNERS:

LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection and improvement of urban forests. We envision vibrant communities where everyone benefits from a healthy urban forest. For over 30 years we have been connecting people with trees through education, planting and stewardship.

The City of Toronto's Urban Forestry Branch is home to one of the largest urban forestry programs in Canada. It is responsible for the management, growth and stewardship of Toronto's urban forest through maintenance, planting, protection and planning. Toronto's urban forest comprises more than 11.5 million trees and is valued at $7.04 billion.

 

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF): 
Natasha Jovanovic - Education Coordinator, LEAF 
437-290-7826 | natasha@yourleaf.org

Justin Lewis – Marketing and Communications Lead 
416-413-9244 | justin@yourleaf.org

City of Toronto 
Media@toronto.ca