This article about St. Catharines positive approach to boosting the urban canopy, from the St. Catharines Standard, was first published Friday March 24, 2017.
In an effort to boost its tree population, St. Catharines is considering offering residents trees at a reduced cost and implementing public and private tree bylaws. The ideas, discussed at city council this week, come as the city struggles to keep up with tree losses attributed to the Emerald Ash Borer.
“We feel that there’s strong community interest and a high degree of homeowner awareness of the benefits of trees and stewardship practices,” said Phil Cristi, Acting Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture Services. “We certainly want to leverage that momentum and build on it”