New subsidized program will pick the perfect location on your property, plant it and teach you how to care for it going forward.
Cambridge, ON. In partnership with the City of Cambridge and LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests), Reep Green Solutions has launched a new subsidized tree planting program for homeowners in the Cambridge community. Trees are vital to the health of our cities and neighbourhoods and this program will help ensure homeowners are selecting the right tree for the right place.
Homeowners receive an in-person consultation with an arborist, as well as delivery and full planting service. Reep Green Solutions’ arborist assesses the conditions in the yard and asks about the homeowners’ needs and preferences to help them decide on the tree species and planting locations that are most suitable for their yard.
The City of Cambridge is subsidizing the cost of this program with additional support from the Ages Foundation Fund at the Cambridge and North Dumfries Community Foundation to encourage the growth and health of the urban forest. According to Brian Geerts, City of Cambridge Manager of Forestry and Horticulture, “Approximately 80% of the urban forest canopy is on private lands in the city. This program provides support for getting trees planted on private properties and complements the City’s own tree planting efforts in our parks, streets, and natural areas.”
The trees available through this program will all be native to Ontario. Native trees require less maintenance than exotic species, and provide essential habitat for local wildlife. Reep Green Solutions’ Manager of Green Infrastructure programs, Patrick Gilbride emphasized, “The focus of the consultation with an arborist is to help property owners pick the right tree for the right place, and teach them to provide the right care so that the trees will survive and thrive.” Trees are selected in collaboration with the homeowner to ensure its long term health and longevity.
Homeowners pay the subsidized price of approximately $150 – $220/per tree depending upon the tree(s) chosen, which includes a personalized consultation, delivery and full planting, along with a long-term care guide. There will also be opportunities to participate in workshops on tree maintenance and care hosted by Reep Green Solutions starting this fall. Interested homeowners can visit reepgreen.ca/trees for more information.
Reep Green Solutions is an environmental charity based in the Waterloo Region committed to helping people live sustainably. Reep offers home energy, waste reduction, water conservation and healthy yards services. For further questions on the program, please direct your inquires to Donnique Williams, [email protected].
