Collingwood Introduces ‘Canopy’ Community Forest Project
The Town of Collingwood is pleased to introduce Canopy Collingwood – a community forest project aimed at increasing the Town’s urban tree canopy on private lands. This program is made possible by the very generous donation of Julie DiLorenzo who has committed $500,000 over five years to support the enhancement of Collingwood’s forest assets
During Phase 1 of the initiative, residents who purchase a native tree before July 1st, 2021, will be eligible to receive 50% of the cost in the form of a rebate from the Town. The maximum rebate amount is $150.00 per tree. For example, the purchase of a $100 tree will allow the purchaser to receive a $50 rebate. Purchasing a $350 tree will allow the purchaser to receive a $150 rebate. Phase 2 of the program will launch in September for Fall planting.
Visit Collingwood.ca/canopy for program details and specifics including:
• This program applies to Collingwood residents.
• The purchased tree must be of a native species for Collingwood (list is provided on the website)
• Two trees per property can be eligible for the program
• Purchasers will need to provide a receipt dated prior to July 1, 2021 and showing the species of tree selected
• Trees must be planted in space owned by the purchaser within the Town of Collingwood, and not on Town lands.
• Purchaser is required to take a picture of planted tree and submit with application for rebate
• An online portal is available to submit the rebate application, with required documents, to receive a rebate (link to portal is on the website)
Looking to donate to Collingwood’s Tree Canopy Program?
Join Julie DiLorenzo as a contributor to the benefits provided by trees including carbon capture, support for stormwater management, shade, habitats, food, improved soil conditions, and many more.
Email anorris@collingwood.ca and let us know you would like to donate.
About the Town’s Urban Forest Management Program
The urban forest management plan was adopted by council in 2019 which presents a road map to enhance our urban forest operations as well as policy, planning and development. The plan speaks to the importance the urban forest has on health, the natural environment and climate change. Current tree canopy cover in the Town is estimated at 31.7% (2019) and being able to provide funds to residents for tree planting on private land will be a key contributor to retaining the Town’s 30% canopy cover goal.
About Collingwood
The Town of Collingwood is a progressive community located in the heart of a four-season recreation area on the southern shore of Georgian Bay. The area is well known for its many natural amenities and its rich heritage. Collingwood is a destination for tourism and many business, sporting, and cultural events Collingwood acts as gateway to the South Georgian Bay region, with stunning landscapes that encourage an active lifestyle, and inspire the local arts and culture community. Downtown Collingwood might just surprise you with 30 plus restaurants, 60 plus boutique shops, spas for relaxing, live music for grooving…all in the only downtown core recognized in Canada’s Registrar of Historic Places! More recently, the harbourfront area is emerging as an extension to the downtown district. Plans for expanding the amenities and events in the harbourfront area promise to make this a much more prominent tourism destination.
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For more information, contact:
Manager, Public Relations & Communications
Christa Carter
T. 705-445-1030 Ext. 3274
ccarter@collingwood.ca
Acting Executive Director,
Customer & Corporate Services
Dean Collver
T. 705-445-1030 Ext. 3238
dcollver@collingwood.ca