RRCA Now Offering Free Site Consultations for Tree Planting

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) is inviting landowners across its eastern Ontario watershed jurisdiction to take advantage of free site consultations for its full-service tree planting program. Designed to support projects that improve local forest cover and environmental resilience, the program is available to property owners interested in planting 500 or more trees.

“Planting trees is one of the most effective ways landowners can invest in the long-term health of their property and the surrounding environment,” says Cheyene Brunet, RRCA Forestry Specialist. “Our staff work directly with landowners to identify suitable planting areas and help guide projects from the planning stage through to post-planting assessments.”

Site consultations include evaluations of the land’s features, such as drainage, topography, soil conditions, competing vegetation, and more. The RRCA can then prepare a planting plan for the property, provide guidance on site preparations, source and plant native seedlings, and conduct follow-up assessments. Thanks to partnerships with Forests Canada, ALUS Ontario East, and others, the RRCA can offer significant subsidies for property owners.

“Every property is different, and tree planting projects can serve many purposes,” says Brunet. “Some landowners are looking to create wildlife habitat or improve privacy, while others are focused on erosion control, wind protection, or restoring natural areas. We encourage anyone considering a project to reach out and learn what options may be available for their land.”

In addition to larger planting projects, the RRCA also offers low-cost native trees and shrubs through its over-the-counter seedling sale. Property owners are encouraged to subscribe to RRCA’s monthly newsletter at rrca.on.ca to be notified when next spring’s seedling sale application form becomes available this fall.

Since 1994, more than 1.3 million trees have been planted through RRCA forestry programs. As one of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities, the RRCA delivers community-led programs and services focused on strengthening the health and resilience of local watersheds.

To learn more or book a free site consultation, visit rrca.on.ca/Trees or contact the RRCA at (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca