Kitchener begins tree planting program through support from CN and Tree Canada

The City of Kitchener has announced that through funding from Canadian National (CN) Railway and Tree Canada, it will plant 60 large-diameter trees in five parks across Kitchener. Kitchener was selected to participate in the CN EcoConnexions program, which is funding the planting of 100,000 trees this year in Canada and the United States.

Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic was joined by representatives of Tree Canada and Ward 1 Councillor Scott Davey at Rosenberg Park for a tree planting ceremony, kicking off the program.

“I’m excited for the impact this will have on our urban tree canopy,” said Mayor Vrbanovic. “As a rapidly growing city, it’s more important than ever that our residents have lush green spaces to enjoy. This partnership with CN and Tree Canada is an important step in promoting healthy tree cover in our parks – enhancing a critical natural resource.”

The funding from the CN Eco Connnexions program is in the form of a $25,000 grant, which will be used to enhance the tree canopy in Kitchener parks where there has been trees lost due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer beetle. Until now the City’s efforts have been focused on replacing street trees.

The approximately 60 large-diameter trees funded by the grant will be located where they can have the greatest impact on tree coverage, planted along existing tree watering routes where possible to maximize watering efficiency and reduce costs.

“This funding will allow us to move quickly on something that widely benefits our whole community,” said Councillor Davey. “Improving Kitchener’s tree coverage while enhancing our parks makes our neighbourhoods more vibrant, welcoming, and beautiful.”

Through this funding the City will plant large stature trees, to improve Kitchener’s tree cover which provides complimentary and lasting benefits, including lowering summer temps through shade, enhancing aesthetics, and providing wildlife habitat.

The City is currently conducting an engagement survey on its long-term tree canopy targets. Residents interested in providing feedback on how the City should approach its tree canopy can visit www.engagewr.ca/treecanopytarget.

For more information:
Shawn Falcao
Manager, Corporate Communications and Marketing
shawn.falcao@kitchener.ca