City of Kitchener launches free tree giveaway to celebrate second year as a Tree City of the World

Kitchener, ON – For the second year in a row, Kitchener has been recognized as a Tree City of the World by the Arbor Day Foundation and United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. Awarded to 283 cities across 24 countries, this designation acknowledges the City of Kitchener's efforts in tree care, policy development, community engagement and maintaining a healthy urban canopy. 

“I'm thrilled that Kitchener has been recognized once again for our commitment to protecting, maintaining and growing our urban forest,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “Kitchener’s forests and natural spaces are beloved assets in our community that are not only enjoyed by residents year-round, but play a critical role in our city’s ecosystem. Through the goals of our Strategic Plan, policies like our Sustainable Urban Forest Strategy and our ongoing planting and maintenance programs, we will continue to work hard to prioritize our trees and natural spaces as our community continues to grow.” 

The City’s Sustainable Urban Forest Strategy, which serves as the framework for management of our urban forest, provides a vision, goal and five branches for a sustainable urban forest, including growth of our tree canopy to achieve 30% canopy coverage in each ward by 2050 and 33% city-wide by 2070. 

“We are constantly exploring how we can best support our urban forest as we work to grow Kitchener’s tree canopy,” said Joshua Shea, the City’s Manager of Forestry and Natural Area Management. “I’m proud that our work to support trees in our community has been recognized for the second year in a row. Through strategic planting and continuous care of our city’s trees, we are working to ensure our community has healthy and abundant urban forest that will thrive for years to come.” 

To celebrate this milestone, the City of Kitchener is giving away 300 free trees to residents to help share the benefits of trees with the entire community. Until April 27, interested residents can apply for a free 2-gallon potted tree to plant on their property. Each household is eligible for one free tree while supplies last. To learn more and apply to receive a free tree as part of the giveaway, check out our sign-up form. 

Learn more about the policies, strategies and daily work that helped make Kitchener a Tree City of the World at Kitchener.ca/Trees 

For more information: 

Corporate Communications and Marketing 
City of Kitchener 
Media@kitchener.ca