On Nov. 5, almost 100 trees and shrubs made a leap from pots to the ground at Walinga’s here, thanks to the help of some 40 high school students in the landscape architecture class at Centre Wellington District High School.
Students also layered on mulch to protect the plants from weeds, mowers and help retain moisture. Six NeighbourWoods tree stewards were on hand to provide guidance and support.
Walinga’s is the first business to take part in a new program. Project coordinator Toni Ellis said “It’s great to plant trees for people who are so enthusiastic about trees – and we know that they’ll do their part by watering for the first two years.”
The trees and shrubs – all species native to the region – now adorn the front of the building and ring the north and east perimeter. Eventually, they will provide a windbreak and shade. The students enjoyed getting out of the classroom and into the field, and reported one tree planter, “It felt good to be part of this today.”
This is the first tree plant in the NeighbourWoods industrial, commercial, and retail tree planting program, which will be rolled out next spring. Businesses interested in joining should call for more details at 519-846-0841 or by email to neighbourwoods@eloraenvironmentcentre.ca.
The program was made possible thanks to funding from the Ontario Automotive Recyclers Association. Centre Wellington Township provided the mulch. Organizers also thanked the students of CWDHS, the county’s Green Legacy tree planting program, and Little Tree nursery, which provided the plant material.
