Free Trees In Celebration of Earth Day
Candy Pollard

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority is once again inviting the public to join them in celebrating Earth Day 2008. Evergreen seedlings (limited to ten per family) will be given to two hundred local residents who would like to beautify their home as well as contribute to the environment. Younger (sapling) trees will also be available for sale at a nominal fee. Due to the high demand in previous year, we are unable to reserve any trees. They will be distributed on a “first come - first serve” basis.

Planting tips and answers to your questions will be provided by RRCA staff such as Forest Technician Normand Genier, who says “The tree giveaway is an excellent way for city residents and the local community to participate in Earth Day by increasing the amount of greencover on their property“. “He further emphasized, “aside from increasing property value and reducing wind, noise and dust levels around the house, trees also help sequester carbon from the air we breathe.” In urban areas, trees contribute to the environment and aesthetic well being of the community as well as create or enhance wildlife habitat, provide windbreaks and cooling shade.

Two new initiatives for 2008 will be unveiled at this event. The RRCA Memorial Tree Planting Program allows you to select a species befitting of the personality of the deceased to be planted in the watershed and nurtured by RRCA staff and volunteers. The St. Lawrence River Restoration Council as part of the Cornwall Remedial Action Plan is also launching a voluntary septic re-inspection program affording this opportunity to residents in South Glengarry near the shores of the St. Lawrence River. Program organizers will be on hand with additional information. Educational materials on nest boxes for birds and other resource information will also be provided by Wildlife Monitoring Supervisor, Brendan Jacobs.

Everyone is encouraged to drop by and chat with the helpful staff and volunteers. They look forward to assisting you on Saturday, the 19th of April 2008 beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the workshop site of the Gray’s Creek Conservation Area & Marina Complex at 18045 County Road # 2 in Cornwall. You’ll also find them at the R.A.R.E. plant at 265 Industrial Avenue in Alexandria as part of the 13th Annual North Glengarry Community Cleanup Day.

These trees will be watered in preparation for transport so please come equipped with a suitable protective container. While the trees are free, donations are accepted. The funds ensure the continuation of this and other similar programs.

For more information, contact Normand Genier at 613-938-3611 ext. 228 or normand@rrca.on.ca.

For information on other news and upcoming events in Cornwall and Seaway Valley, click on the following links:

• Other Candy Reports
• Calendar of Events