City of Hamilton giving away 3,000 trees. Here’s how to get one

By

Published May 5, 2022 at 10:41 am

City of Hamilton giving away 3,000 trees. Here's how to get one
The City of Hamilton opened its tree giveaway program to the public. Residents can get a free native tree to plant on their property, just by registering.

The City of Hamilton has opened its tree giveaway program to the public. Residents can receive a free native tree to plant on their property, just by registering.

Last year’s pilot program saw 800 trees given away across six wards. In 2022, the City wants to give away 3,000 trees as it looks to offset emissions and enhance Hamilton’s biodiversity.

One large tree can provide a day’s oxygen for up to four people and lift up to 300,000 gallons of water out of the ground and discharge it into the air in one day.

“Trees in our city are vital tools for environmental and economic functions, including air and water filtration, carbon storage, temperature moderation, fostering biodiversity plus much more,” said Mayor Fred Eisenberger. “As Hamilton continues to grow, finding ways to invite residents of all ages to participate in the planting and caring process for trees helps us reconnect with neighbours, build a sense of community, and protect the environment for future generations.”

The program will be hosted over a span of four days – June 4 and 11 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Forestry Yard on Upper Ottawa St and June 7 and 14 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bayfront Park.

To secure a 30-minute timeslot for contactless drive-thru pickup and to select a preferred native tree species, residents can register online at hamilton.ca/privatetreegiveaway.

The tree giveaway program is being funded through the tax operating budget.

The City says it expects to plant between 10,000 and 12,000 trees in 2022 after nearly 18,000 were planted last year.

insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising