Taking direct action to enhance the urban forest, help combat climate change and mitigate biodiversity loss is easy as 1-2-TREE!
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Plant
Since 2014, we have hosted planting events in York Region and Durham Region to enhance the urban forest, engage communities in hands-on tree planting, and educate the public about the importance of native plants. We have connected with thousands of participants and planted thousands of native trees and shrubs across dozens of naturalization sites.
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Monitor
Monitoring the success of our planting events along with the changes in plant diversity, tree and shrub health, and the prevalence of invasive plant species helps us better understand the impact of our naturalization efforts. Since 2020, data collected through our monitoring program has helped us improve our naturalization methods, minimize invasive species competition, and increase survival of the native trees and shrubs we plant.
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Steward
For the first few years after planting, we continue to care for our naturalization sites through stewardship activities, such as litter pick-ups, mulching and invasive species removal. This additional support helps to maintain tree and shrub health and improve survival.
Participating in Our Community Tree Planting and Stewardship Events
![LEAF volunteer at a community planting event](/files/inline-images/community_planting_4.png)
Our Planting and Stewardship Events are a great way to take direct action for the environment while learning how to protect and care for our urban forest. These fun, community-building events empower people to be part of the solution to climate change and biodiversity loss.
What to expect
You’ll receive expert training from a LEAF staff or trained volunteer on proper tree planting, mulching or invasive species removal techniques. You’ll leave with new skills, a deeper understanding of native plant species, and the knowledge to help grow a greener future!
Event participants must:
- Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for outdoor physical activity and weather conditions (rain or shine!)
- Follow all event safety precautions
- Bring a reusable water bottle and sun protection
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Come with a great attitude, ready to get your hands dirty and learn!
Join a Public Event
![LEAF volunteers posing with a newly planted tree](/files/inline-images/community_planting_5.png)
Our events take place in York Region and Durham Region. We host tree planting events in the spring and fall. Stewardship events take place in the summer.
All ages are welcome to these family-friendly events! Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
For upcoming Community Tree Planting and Stewardship Events, check out our Events page! Be the first to know about upcoming events by subscribing to LEAF News.
Plan Your Own Private Event
![two LEAF volunteers posing with a newly planted tree](/files/inline-images/community_planting_6.png)
Depending on the size of your group, LEAF may be able to offer a variety of private tree planting and stewardship event options in York Region or Durham Region.
- Private events are suitable for groups of 50 – 100 people. This option is a great fit for corporate groups seeking a team-building activity for employees with a budget to cover event costs. A private event allows for a truly customized group experience, tailored to the needs and goals of your organization. LEAF requires a minimum of three months’ notice to plan a private event.
- If you have a small group (under 50 people) but would still like to participate in a tree planting or stewardship event, your group may be able to attend one of our public community events. This option is a great fit for smaller groups with a limited budget and are flexible with scheduling and can participate in a weekend event.
To find out more about which option may work best for your group, view our Group Tree Planting & Stewardship Events leaflet. For any questions, please contact sarah[at]yourleaf.org.
Site Selection
![aerial shot of volunteers at a community planting event](/files/inline-images/community_planting_7.png)
LEAF partners with local municipalities in York and Durham Regions to identify public lands for naturalization. We work with our municipal partners to plant in high-impact locations where our efforts will have added benefits, like extending existing wooded areas or improving water filtration around stormwater retention ponds.
For tree planting and stewardship events in the City of Toronto, visit their Community Stewardship Program.
Learn More
![LEAF volunteer digging a hole at a community planting event](/files/inline-images/community_planting_8.png)
Below is a selection videos, blogs and media releases describing our recent tree planting efforts:
Videos:
- Grovewood Park Planting Event
- Aurora National Forest Week Planting Event
- LEAF King Township Planting Event
Blogs:
- A Case for Native Biodiversity: Restoring Oshawa’s Russett Park
- Growing as a Community: Spring Naturalization Planting in York Region
- Creating Resiliency through Biodiversity in Durham Region
- Enhancing Biodiversity in Markhams’ Grandview Park
- Earth Tending with SpuceLab and LEAF
Media Releases: