If you're planning on planting a tree in your backyard, you may be eligible for a $100 rebate toward the cost of an already subsidized program.
The Town of Newmarket has partnered with LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests) and the Regional Municipality of York for subsidized backyard tree plantings as part of its stormwater rebate program.
The town will cover an additional $100 toward the purchase price of one tree per eligible property through this already subsidized backyard tree planting programs (full service or do-it-yourself) offered by LEAF.
Any Newmarket resident who would like a backyard tree — a limited numbers of trees are available through the program — can visit the website for more information.
Trees have many benefits, including providing stormwater management services, according to the town's website. On average, a tree reduces a property's stormwater runoff by 720 litres — a rain barrel can hold about 200 litres.
Also, trees remove pollutants from the air, reduce residents' energy and water usage and beautify the community. Trees also intercept rainfall, decrease stormwater runoff and increase the ability for water to soak into the ground.
"Every tree planted contributes to our urban forest while providing many environmental and health benefits," the town stated. "This program has the potential to help our community plant more trees in the community and divert 36,000 litres from our stormwater management system."
You can contact LEAF directly to arrange for the planting of your new tree at yourleaf.org, [email protected] or 1-888-453-6504.
