Wood Buffalo made great strides since the devastating wildfire.
Nevertheless, there are still visual reminders of those difficult times in our backyards and neighbourhoods.
That’s why Tree Canada is back encouraging residents and groups to sign up for Operation ReLeaf.
Returning for the third consecutive year, Operation ReLeaf provides grants to residents, community and Indigenous groups committed to replanting trees.
Fire Chief Jody Butz says communities can re-green Wood Buffalo and still be FireSmart.
“Tree Canada has played an instrumental role in helping our region reestablish its forest canopy after the wildfire in 2016. The continued success of this community grant initiative is a great example of how we can all work together to re-green our homes and our neighbourhoods while still aligning with FireSmart principles.”
Applicants that are eligible may receive up to $500 per household to re-plant trees on private property.
Also, community and Indigenous groups may receive up to $3,000.
To qualify, trees must align with FireSmart guidelines.
Getting started
Download the Guide to FireSmart Landscaping to learn what are the right trees to plant.
Next, the Municipality and Tree Canada will host a free information seminar at Lions Park on May 11, 2019.
They will discuss everything from grant applications to tree planting.
The deadline to apply is June 3, 2019.
Facts and figures
- Tree Canada is a non-profit charity, which began in 1992.
- They planted more than 80 million trees and improved 600 schoolyards.
- Residents planted an estimated 78,000 trees last year.
- In 2018, Tree Canada contributed $400,000 to 200 residents and seven community groups for their replanting efforts.
