“I don't know whose idea this was, but it is BRILLIANT! Thank you” – Local Danforth Resident and Tree Adopter
Yes! Watering street trees – especially those that are newly planted – is brilliant. When the local community gets involved in tree stewardship we see tree survival and health improve; we see people feeling more connected and engaged in their neighbourhood; we see streets becoming more beautiful; and we see more and more people caring for the urban forest. This is how we reach our vision of a healthy, lush urban canopy. Together.
“I love the idea of involving local business in the process of improving the neighbourhood and environment. I think it brings more people on board and promotes community spirit.” – Danforth Business Owner and Tree Adopter
Christine from Kato Animal Hospital waters one of her trees
Going into the Adopt-a-Street-Tree pilot project, we knew that Torontonians had an appetite for community tree stewardship, but the enthusiasm and dedication we encountered along the Danforth in such a short period of time was beyond what we anticipated. With over 60 tree adopters caring for over 100 trees, the potential for the new Danforth trees to flourish is real.
The enthusiasm has been contagious, and other communities across Toronto are asking how they can start Adopt-a-Street-Tree Programs of their own. In the coming months, LEAF and the City of Toronto will release a how-to guide for anyone interested in starting a similar initiative in their neighbourhood.
If you would like to see an Adopt-a-Street-Tree program in your community, LEAF wants to hear from you!
You can learn more about the Danforth pilot here. Contact erin[at]yourleaf.org if you have any questions about the pilot or about starting your own program.
The Adopt-a-Street-Tree Danforth pilot project was undertaken in partnership with the City of Toronto and was supported by a TD Green Streets grant from TD Friends of the Environment Foundation and Tree Canada.
Erin MacDonald is LEAF’s Volunteer and Stewardship Coordinator.