NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF ORILLIA
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The City of Orillia’s Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) is celebrating National Tree Day with a one-time tree giveaway of 150 sugar maple trees on Saturday, Sept. 28 in the parking lot at Orillia City Centre at 50 Andrew St.
“Orillia has a beautiful tree canopy that we want to protect and expand. Orillia’s one-day tree giveaway is our way of celebrating National Tree Day while promoting the importance of preserving our tree canopy not only for aesthetics, but for the health of the environment as well,” said Mayor Steve Clarke.
“We want to encourage Orillia residents to be more aware of the city’s tree canopy and the value of trees for the environment. As a committee, we are taking steps to create a viable community program for sustaining the city’s beautiful tree canopy,” said Michael Williams, Chair of EAC.
The sugar maples are native to the Orillia area and are being provided in two-gallon pots approximately five to six feet tall. To receive a free tree, complete and submit the application form and provide proof of your Orillia residential address where the tree is to be planted.
Application forms are available at orillia.ca/eac, the first floor customer service desk at Orillia City Centre during regular business hours, and during the tree giveaway event while quantities last. Trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Members of the EAC will provide tips and information for planting best practices.
The 2019 tree giveaway will run on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m., or until all 150 sugar maple trees are distributed, whichever comes first. Additional information regarding the 2019 tree giveaway can be found at orillia.ca/eac or by contacting Robin Cadeau, Assistant Clerk, at [email protected].
The EAC continues to provide opportunities to enhance the city’s tree canopy. Options for residential tree rebates were offered in 2017 and 2018 in addition to the planting of four significant “Majestic Maples” in J.B. Tudhope Memorial Park, Hillcrest Park, Homewood Park, and the West Orillia Sports Complex, each marked with a beautiful granite boulder and commemorative plaque.
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