April 26th, 2022 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Richmond Hill, ON – Residents from across the province celebrated Earth Month by exploring the diversity and benefits of trees around them. On Monday, April 25th the non-profit organization, LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests), with support from the City of Richmond Hill hosted a virtual exploration of native trees that support local pollinators, followed by a self-led outdoor activity.
The virtual presentation was led by Brian Millward, Acting Community Programs Manager at LEAF. Participants learned which native trees best support local bees and how they can help enhance pollinator habitat.
“The urban forest is an ecosystem made up of many fascinating characters that are all connected to one another. By learning more about native bee species and how native trees and shrubs support them with food and habitat, we hope that residents will be inspired to do their part to protect and enhance the urban forest and build a deeper connection with nature,” says Brian Millward.
After the presentation, participants were encouraged to get outside and explore the biodiversity of their own communities with a self-led activity sheet. The sheet highlights four early-, mid- and late-season bee-friendly bloomers, and outlined eight steps to enhance pollinator habitat right from their own yard. Equipped with their LEAF activity sheets, participants headed out to parks and green spaces near them to spot as many bee-friendly tree and shrub species as they could.
“One of the best things we can do to support pollinators like bees and butterflies is to conserve and create habitat. In Richmond Hill, we’re planting pollinator-friendly trees and gardens on City property and we encourage residents to do the same at home,” says Richmond Hill Mayor David West.
The virtual presentation was made possible with support from the City of Richmond Hill and Ontario Power Generation.
For more information on upcoming LEAF events, visit the LEAF website.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
LEAF:
Meandra Provencal, Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Phone: 416-413-9244
meandra@yourleaf.org