As Spring finally arrives, NeighbourWoods on the Grand (a branch of the Elora Environment Centre) is once again asking for volunteer tree planters from Centre Wellington “to help counter the ills of urban life with green spaces throughout the area.”
People of all ages are welcome to help with the planting and stewarding of trees, contributing to the several hundred native trees already planted by previous volunteers of NeighbourWoods.
“Trees transform our neighbourhoods, enliven our downtown streets, increase property values and brighten our communities,” said Toni Ellis, coordinator of NeighbourWoods.
In 2006, NeighbourWoods started as a grass roots movement to advocate for and promote our urban trees in Centre Wellington. Trees rely on the work of volunteers.
“NeighbourWoods is currently looking for volunteers for 2013 tree plants,” said Bethany Mulder, marketing coordinator of the Elora Environment Centre. “We are looking for eager and able-bodied community members who want to help plant new trees as well as mulch and water young trees from previous plants.”
Along with seasonal tree planting and stewarding, NeighbourWoods also runs a program called Celebration Trees. This program honours a special person or event with the gift of a locally-planted tree and informative plaque.
NeighbourWoods believes that planting a tree is a meaningful way to commemorate a wedding, birth, accomplishment or to honour a special person who has passed. With a tax deductible donation of $150, a person or family receives a 6 to 8 foot tree with an engraved plaque and an invitation to take part in the celebratory planting.
NeighbourWoods on the Grand runs a variety of programs in the community, including Tree Inventory, Tree Ambassadors and Tree Talks.
To learn more about their programs, membership and tree planting, call 519-846-0841.