Media Release

July 14, 2014 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - On Saturday July 12, 2014, LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests) and Community Bicycle Network (CBN) teamed up to provide a new perspective on trees and urban cycling infrastructure. Thirty-five people joined the tour, cycling through several neighbourhoods and parks, including Trinity Bellwoods, Christie Pits, The Annex and more. The group of cyclists started on Queen Street and ended at Rosedale Station.

Along the way, participants discovered different trees and their interesting tales and learned about biking in the city.  “Because we were on two wheels, we were able to cover more ground and stop at many different locations on our route,” said Amanda Gomm, LEAF tour leader. “Participants learned simple tree identification tricks and saw some unique species.”

Community Bicycle Network works to “put more bums on bicycles” and found the tour an exciting way for people to enjoy the city on bikes. “Not only did participants get to learn interesting facts about the urban forest in their particular neighbourhood, they also learned about new routes and ways to get around the city that they might not normally take,” said Adrian Currie, tour leader and Chair of the Board of Directors of CBN. “This was a great way to get people on bikes and enjoying the sights they would miss in a car.”

The final stop on the tour was in Ramsden Park near Rosedale Station, a park with great tree diversity. Participants encountered large and beautiful catalpas, a tamarack (or larch), huge white birches and horse chestnut trees. There were even several fruit trees, including serviceberry and apple trees.

Bicycles and trees are a natural fit, as they both contribute to cleaner air and a greener, more livable city.