CORNWALL, Ont. – The Raisin Region Conservation Authority is distributing 2,000 free white spruce seedlings on Saturday.
The annual tree giveaway event marks Earth Day (April 22), while helping to create and enhance wildlife habitat, windbreaks, and cooling shade.
Thanks to RBC’s Blue Water Project, ten conifer seedlings per family will be given to two hundred local residents who would like to beautify their home as well as contribute to the environment.
“We have 2,000 white spruce seedlings available this year and as always, we look forward to meeting with the public and answering any tree planting questions they may have,” said Normand Génier, RRCA forestry specialist.
Due to the high demand in previous years, they will be distributed on a ‘first come – first serve’ basis. Tree seedlings are limited to 10 per family.
Educational materials on nest boxes for birds and other wildlife information will also be provided.
While the trees are free, donations are accepted.
Larger potted trees will also be available; evergreens sell for $10 and deciduous for $15.
The funds from donations, potted trees, and a raffle (featuring prizes donated from various local businesses) will ensure the continuation of this and other similar forestry programs.
“With the recent arrival of the Emerald Ash Borer insect in Cornwall, this year’s Earth Day Tree Giveaway provides an excellent opportunity to pick up some replacements,” said Génier.
The event starts at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 23 (the day after Earth Day) at the workshop site of the Gray’s Creek Conservation Area & Marina Complex (18045 County Road # 2 in Cornwall).
For more information, visit www.rrca.on.ca.
Click here to read our previous coverage on the Emerald Ash Borer.
