NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF ORILLIA
SUSTAINABLE ORILLIA
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The City of Orillia, in collaboration with Sustainable Orillia, is pleased to announce a special Tree Planting Day in Orillia on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024 to celebrate National Tree Day.
“We’re proud to partner with Sustainable Orillia on this important initiative. We encourage residents to come out and help plant some trees or take advantage of our free tree giveaway,” said Mayor Don McIsaac.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and contribute to our city’s tree canopy. Planting trees not only enhances the beauty of Orillia, but also plays a vital role for the health of the environment.”
A Tree Planting Day event will take place at 1 p.m. at York Street Park, located at 120 York St. in Orillia. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own gardening equipment. To ensure proper co-ordination, those interested in participating are asked to contact Matt Thomson, Sustainable Orillia member, at [email protected] to register in advance.
For Orillia residents who would like to plant a tree on their own property, various species of saplings and shrubs will be available in a limited quantity for pick-up at York Street Park from 1 to 3 p.m. The number of saplings is limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with one tree per property. Trees must be requested and confirmed in advance by contacting Coun. Jay Fallis at [email protected] or by phone at 705-279-3249 to be picked up. Trees are available to Orillia residents only and will not be available without prior registration. Residents will be required to show proof of Orillia residency at the time of pick-up.
Those picking up trees for private planting must ensure utility locates are completed for their property before any soil is excavated. Residents can request locates for their property from Ontario One Call online at ontarioonecall.ca or by calling 1-800-400-2255.
City parks staff as well as Sustainable Orillia members will be on hand at the event to provide planting guidance and tips for both volunteers and those picking up their free tree to take home to plant.
“Trees play an essential role in creating a more sustainable and resilient community,” said Sarah Patterson, president of Sustainable Orillia. “By working together, we can continue to make Orillia a greener, healthier place for future generations.”
National Tree Day is Sept. 25, 2024 with many cities celebrating with tree planting events on Sept. 28, 2024. National Tree Day is a day for Canadians to come together in appreciation of trees, their natural beauty, and the many benefits they provide. For more information regarding this initiative visit the Tree Canada website.
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