Over half of all Canadians now live in or near our four largest urban centers. Many want to escape the pressures of the city by moving to the country, but still be near work, shopping and entertainment. This creates increased commuting distances, more roads, and subdivisions - all having serious and damaging effects on our natural environment. This is urban sprawl.

To counteract urban sprawl and the greenhouse gasses that result from it, one of the most powerful things anyone can do is plant a tree. Trees "breathe in" and store carbon dioxide (CO2), a major greenhouse gas, from the atmosphere as they grow. In one year, a mature tree absorbs as much CO2 as a car produces, driving 50,000 kms. Healthy, growing trees do not solve the source of the greenhouse gas/smog problem, but they can reduce its terrible impact on our air quality and health. These living “carbon sinks” ease the effects of climate change.
We have a challenge in Caledon! Tree cover in our Town is now about 25% - pretty good, but we have a goal of 30% within 5 years. We do not know how many trees it will take to do that, but the sooner we get started the sooner we will reach that goal! You can help by becoming a Tree Steward, either on you own land or on someone else’s.

What is Tree Stewardship?

Tree stewardship is more than the simple, caring act of planting a tree. It requires a certain amount of commitment. Coniferous seedlings or hardwood ‘whips’ do not survive if they are just planted and left to fend for themselves. Without proper care, mortality rates can reach 90% over three years – most of that in the first year.

Stewardship involves watering a tree during drought periods, clearing the grass away from the base of the tree as it grows and providing a protective rodent and weather collar for the winter. It’s easy and it works. Planting a tree is a labour of love – please don’t let it die.

How can I become involved?

COOL Caledon’s tree stewardship project allows individuals and groups to help clear our air. This is a fantastic opportunity for you, your family, club, business, organization, group of friends... to participate in an environmental and health-helping activity.

If you do not have space on your own property to steward trees, there are public and government-owned lands available. Because of the commitment required, we suggest you steward only a small grove of trees, say 5 or 6, to ensure their survival. What better way to commemorate a loved one, or to celebrate a wedding, or birth of a child or grandchild. They can grow up with the tree, and learn to nurture and appreciate nature!

The option is even available to participate from your armchair. If you have the interest and some money, but not necessarily the time or perhaps physical ability, for a small ‘per tree’ contribution, you can have your trees looked after by someone else! We are currently working with some local social service clubs to make this aspect a reality.



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Dr. Ehrlich's Tree Stewardship Articles