You can add West Perth to the list of communities embracing a tree planting initiative in Perth County.
The lower tier municipality is partnering with Upper Thames Region Conservation Authority (UTRCA) for its first 'West Perth Tree Power'.
"I think it will be a pretty easy sellout," Darcey Cook, West Perth's director of community services, told StratfordToday.
The partnership allows residents to purchase a tree for $25, a significant discount from traditional prices. Species offered include Autumn Fantasy Maple, Bur Oak, Downy Serviceberry, Hackberry, Native Red Maple and Red Oak.
Emily Chandler, UTRCA communications and marketing specialist, said the Tree Power program started in London back in 2021 and has grown in popularity through the region covered by the conservation authority.
Stratford, Perth South and St. Marys also run the program each year and more details on those programs are coming soon, Chandler said. The only difference between the programs in each community is the number of trees offered for sale, she said.
Cook said the West Perth Environment Forestry and Trails committee played a big part in bringing the program together.
The program empowers residents to contribute to a more sustainable community, he added.
“We’re getting set up for a busy spring and we’re excited to get more trees into the hands of watershed residents. We’re very happy to see the program growing and welcome this new partnership with West Perth,” says Rob Davies, UTRCA forestry and restoration supervisor.
Trees are ordered online starting Friday (Feb. 23) at 8 a.m. Residents are asked to purchase one per property, so that as many people can benefit from the program as possible. Trees are available for pick-up April 6 at the West Perth municipal building parking lot. Conservation authority and municipal staff will help hand them out.
Trees come directly from a nursery, so they are good quality, Chandler said. With municipalities supporting more tree planting, it's win-win for everyone, she said.
Added Chandler: "We are excited to start in West Perth, we believe it will be well received. I expect West Perth will sell out, we have seen it happen around the county and now it's their turn."
West Perth residents can purchase trees at the West Perth Tree Power online store.
