ReLeaf for residents restoring the green

PHOTO. Trees burnt from the wildfire. Tree Canada is back with Operation ReLeaf. The tree replanting program returns for its third year in Wood Buffalo providing grants to residents, and Indigenous and community groups committed to re-greening Wood Buffalo. NKS Photography. Used with permission.

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.