Kawartha Conservation completes tree planting project in Kawartha Lakes

KAWARTHA LAKES: Kawartha Conservation and the City of Kawartha Lakes have completed a tree planting initiative surrounding a municipal stormwater management pond, supporting local wildlife habitat, watershed health and environmental sustainability.

The project received $73,820 from the Government of Canada through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ (FCM) Growing Canada’s Community Canopies initiative, part of its Green Municipal Fund.

The planting combines Kawartha Conservation’s forestry and stewardship expertise with the City’s municipal partnership. As the trees mature, they will expand local tree canopy, provide wildlife habitat, intercept rainfall, stabilize soil and help reduce erosion.

“Planting the right tree in the right place is essential, particularly around a stormwater pond where soil and moisture conditions can vary,” said Hunter Girdler, Forestry and Landowner Services Technician with Kawartha Conservation.

Danielle Marcoux-Hunter, Coordinator of Stewardship, said the project demonstrates how municipal partnerships can create healthier natural spaces and deliver lasting environmental benefits.

FCM’s Growing Canada’s Community Canopies initiative, announced in May 2024, aims to support the planting of at least 1.2 million trees across Canada by March 2031.

Kawartha Conservation acknowledged the City of Kawartha Lakes, Government of Canada and FCM’s Green Municipal Fund for supporting the project.