LSRCA setting tree planting records in 2017
Authority sold more than 14,500 tree, shrub seedlings this year

yorkregion.com
May 16, 2017
By Simon Martin

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) said it is breaking tree planting records this year. The LSRCA’s do-it-yourself (DIY) seedling sale saw more than 14,500 tree and shrub seedlings go to landowners across York, Simcoe and Durham.

“At a time when we’re losing trees because of invasive pests like the emerald ash borer, it’s great to see record sales” LSRCA forest technician Paul Cottenden said. “It’s easy to forget that at one time, most of southern Ontario was one big forest. Naturally, we’re thrilled to provide affordable opportunities for residents to help add as many trees as possible to the landscape.”

Ron and Susan Mitchell, repeat buyers from Kettleby, bought another 150 seedlings this year. “The trees we purchased last year were a great investment, with around a 90 per cent success rate. We’re doing our small part again this year,” Ron said. The O’Brien and La Grutta families from Newmarket are making planting a family event and Neil Taylor, a first time DIY seedling buyer, is creating a 300-seedling windbreak in Uxbridge.

Conservation Authorities like LSRCA, subsidize seedlings and promote tree planting. Once trees are established, they can reduce erosion and flooding, and act as windbreaks to shelter areas from wind and blowing snow.

For more, visit lsrca.on.ca/DIYPlanting.