York Region is celebrating after planting two million trees Sept. 19 and is inviting residents to enjoy local forestry this weekend.
The region held a special ceremony during National Forest Week at the Maple Health Centre, planting the new tree next to the one-millionth tree planted at the same location in 2013.
“Planting the two millionth tree reinforces York Region’s commitment to preserving our shared forest heritage and recognizes the vital role forests play in our communities,” the region said in a news release.
The ceremony included an offering of tobacco to the new tree from the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. Staff, dignitaries and Maple Health Centre patients gathered for the event.
The region has a greening strategy, last refined in 2022, which guides the planting of trees and land conservation efforts.
“This significant accomplishment stands as a testament to our greening strategy and what can be achieved when communities, partners, and residents come together to create healthier, more resilient and sustainable natural environments,” the region said.
The event occurred during National Forest Week, a national recognition of forestry that encourages Canadians to learn about forest heritage.
The region continues to celebrate, with a forest fall festival at the York Regional Forest Hollidge Tract in Whitchurch-Stouffville Sept. 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The region is also offering forest discovery kits at local libraries on Sept. 23, where you can find forest-related items and activities for the whole family.
The forest fall festival will take place at 16389 Highway 48, Whitchurch-Stouffville. Residents are encouraged to carpool, with no advanced registration required.
