500 free trees available for Burlington residents to plant

Burlington residents are invited to pick up a free sapling at the City’s annual Fall Tree Giveaway.

Being held Saturday, Sept. 23, 500 trees of various species will be given away to to Burlington residents to plant on their private property.

“Burlington’s urban forest is a valued and shared resource that must collectively be protected by Council, the City, community partners and residents,” said Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.

“The annual spring and fall tree giveaways are great examples of the community working together to support the City in its efforts to expand and protect our urban forest and tree canopy.”

In order to receive a tree, residents must register in advance, show proof of registration upon arriving and have a vehicle to safely transport the tree. Quantities are limited. Residents are entitled to one tree per household.

Trees can be picked up between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Burlington’s Roads, Parks and Forestry Operations Centre parking lot, 897 Cumberland Ave.

Registration opens on Friday, Sept. 8, at 9 a.m. For details regarding available tree species and registration information, visit Get Involved Burlington.

“Placing trees in a location that suits their health is important to the long-term sustainability and protection of our urban forest,” said Steve Robinson, manager of Urban Forestry.

“By providing a variety of tree species for residents to choose from and equipping them with resources to help them make informed decisions about which trees are suitable for their property, we are not only enhancing the beauty of our neighbourhoods, but also ensuring each tree will flourish for years to come.”