By Liz Bernstein
Ottawa’s trees are in danger from threats like the Emerald Ash Borer, climate change, extreme weather and poorly planned urban expansion. Sadly, the City of Ottawa anticipates losing millions of trees in just the next 3-5 years. Now, more than ever, help from concerned communities is needed to maintain the ecological balance of Ottawa’s urban spaces.
On December 8th 2014, Tree Ottawa presented to Lowertown Community Association on Ecology Ottawa’s MILLION tree initiative. The project is much more than just putting trees in the ground: it’s also about engaging residents, private companies and public organizations in growing a greener community and future.
As Lowertown residents may remember, the Tree Ottawa initiative was launched at Bingham Park in October. We were happy to have them back to tell us how we can get more involved in planning future tree plantings in our community. Velta Tomsons, Tree Ottawa Organizer, presented potential sites for future tree plantings, including Jules Morin Park, Beausoleil Drive, York Street, and Bordeleau Park. These are all sites that will be impacted by a variety of factors, including Emerald Ash Borer, construction, and development.
The residents in attendance discussed the pros and cons of the sites presented. Some proposed focusing on streetscapes rather than community parks, to help traffic calming and improve pedestrian experiences. Others suggested potential planting sites, like along King Edward Ave., around surface parking lots, and throughout the ByWard Market as part of its revitalization process.
It was inspiring to see so much interest. To learn how you can Protect, Plant, and Promote visit http://treeottawa.org/ or to join others in Lowertown participating in Tree Ottawa, contact LCA at info@lowertown-basseville.ca
To adopt a tree, go to http://www.opentreemap.org/ecologyottawa/map
Here are 3 ways you can help:
- Protect the trees that makeOttawa such a cherished city. Did you know the average lifespan of a newly planted city tree is 7 years? These trees need to be adopted. It’s free and easy.
- Plant more trees. Together we are going to plant 1 million trees! One million trees is one tree for each citizen in Ottawa. Will you plant one? Join others in Lowertown to identify planting sites and organize plantings later in the year.
- Promote tree habitat in Ottawa: make a lasting impact by donating to Tree Ottawa, or by volunteering you time.