Charlottetown homeowners will soon be able to help replant Charlottetown’s urban forest through a new program, Operation ReLeaf – Charlottetown, created in partnership with Tree Canada. This program will provide eligible residents with a single large, climate resilient tree for planting on their private property.
“Our Strategic Plan says that we’ll strive to address environmental concerns and enhance the city’s livability,” said Mayor Philip Brown. “Operation ReLeaf – Charlottetown is a great opportunity for residents to help rebuild our urban forest and enhance the beauty of our city.”
A maximum of 95 eligible homeowners will be able to purchase a tree for $20 that will then be delivered to the home. Homeowners must meet the program criteria and be willing to dig the hole for the tree in an agreed location. If a homeowner is unable to dig due to a physical limitation, Ellen’s Creek Watershed will assist under the homeowner’s guidance. If more than 95 applications are received, priority will be given to those who indicate that financial barriers would prevent them from planting trees on their property without this program, and to those residential properties in areas with highest tree canopy loss or narrow City right of way.
“This is an important initiative for the City,” said Councillor Terry Bernard, Chair of Environment and Sustainability Committee. “Trees are essential for our health and well-being, as well as for mitigating the impacts of climate change. We hope that this program will inspire more City residents to plant and care for trees in their neighbourhoods.”
Tree Canada is a national non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of Canadians by planting and nurturing trees. The organization’s Operation ReLeaf programs have helped over a dozen communities across Canada to recover from natural disasters and pests since 1996.
“Tree Canada has committed $50,000 to assist Charlottetown in its recovery effort through our Operation ReLeaf program,” says Nicole Hurtubise, Chief Executive Officer, Tree Canada. “Though natural disasters happen over a few days, their impacts are felt for years. By planting large caliper trees on affected properties, we hope to help residents experience the benefits of trees as soon as possible.”
Registration for Operation ReLeaf – Charlottetown is open until June 2, 2023, and spring planting will be completed before the end of June.
Interested residents can apply online at
Charlottetown.ca/releaf or contact the City’s Environment and Sustainability Department at (902) 629-6620 for more information.