Growing Vaughan’s urban forest … one tree at a time!
As a truly green city, Vaughan continues to expand our urban forest – one tree at a time! Today, Mayor Steven Del Duca, Members of Council, City staff and dedicated volunteers came together for a community planting event that brings 105 new trees to Doctors McLean District Park to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Tree-planting initiatives like today’s help reinforce the City’s commitment to environmental sustainability and growing our tree canopy – which are key priorities outlined in the Urban Forest Management Plan (PDF).
Trees have so many benefits! They help provide oxygen, improve mental and physical health, and offer habitats, food and other resources for many animal species. Vaughan’s vision is to foster a healthy, growing and sustainable urban forest canopy that supports biodiversity, human health, recreation and community resilience.
Interested in becoming a Green Guardian by planning your own event? As a community member, not-for-profit or business, consider initiating a tree/shrub or pollinator garden planting in your neighbourhood. You can also create your own litter cleanup in parks, neighbourhoods, trails and open spaces. Learn more at vaughan.ca/GreenGuardians.
As a Tree City of the World, Vaughan’s approach is guided by several strategies, including the Urban Forest Management Plan (PDF), Woodland Management Strategy (PDF), and Green Directions Vaughan. The City is always working on new ways to enhance its environmental stewardship, with new strategies in the works to guide tree planting initiatives, and tree removals and replacements.
Watch this video to learn more about the importance of planning for the future of Vaughan’s trees or visit vaughan.ca/UrbanForest.
QUOTE
“Trees play a pivotal role in providing an incredible quality of life for everyone here in Vaughan. Events like today’s tree planting inspire others to do their part to protect our environment for future generations. Trees provide oxygen, improve mental and physical health, and provide shelter and food for humans and animals. They also cool the air, save water, reduce noise pollution, capture stormwater runoff and beautify the community! Vaughan is blessed with remarkable parks and green spaces, and it is vital for all of us to play a role in preserving them. I want to thank the dedicated volunteers for their time and commitment to improving our tree canopy, and our hard-working staff from the Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Operations department who continue making Vaughan a green city.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
QUICK FACTS
Mayor Steven Del Duca, Members of Council, City staff and community volunteers planted 105 trees at Doctor McLean District Park (8100 Islington Ave.) on May 24.
The City has been recognized as a Tree City of the World for the fourth consecutive year.
The City’s Urban Forest Management Plan (PDF) has five goals: to prioritize good program governance, maintain a healthy and safe urban forest, expand the urban forest canopy and associated benefits, protect trees and woodlands for future generations, and partner in urban forest stewardship.
The City’s Woodland Management Strategy (PDF) aligns with the priorities set out in the Urban Forest Management Plan and serves as a roadmap for maintaining and enhancing City-owned woodlands.
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