Last Chance for Spring Trees and Grant Money still Available!

Friday, Mar. 13, 2009

Essex - The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is extending its tree ordering deadline and tree orders will now be accepted until Friday, March 20, 2009. Beautify your property while improving the environment!

ASo many people are interested in planting trees that we wanted to try to accommodate everyone,@ said Paul Giroux, ERCA Forester. AWe offer a very wide variety of native tree species, but some quantities are limited, so customers are encouraged to get their orders in as quickly as possible.@

The cost of seedling trees begins at 69 cents, while prices for large stock trees begin at $12.25. You must own at least 1 acre of property to qualify for ERCA=s reforestation program. A minimum purchase of 100 seedlings or 15 large stock trees is required. ERCA can also assist you in planting your seedling trees, whether it be for windbreak purposes or to establish a new woodlot. Currently, only 7.5% of our land base remains in its natural state, while the United Nations has indicated that 12% natural areas coverage is required for sustainability. Restoring habitat wherever possible is critical to creating a sustainable future for this region. You can contact ERCA Forester Paul Giroux at 519 776-5209 ext. 377 if you have forestry related questions or visit www.erca.org/watershed/forestry_and_treeplanting.cfmfor the order form.

In an effort to share in the responsibility of creating a cleaner and healthier environment, ERCA has Clean Water ~ Green Spaces grants available to qualifying landowners across the region for tree planting projects that are one or more acres in size. For grant information, contact ERCA's Forester at 519 776-5209 ext. 377 or Agricultural Technician Michael Dick at 519-776-5209 ext. 369. Details and qualification guidelines are online at www.erca.org/watershed/stewardship.clean_water.cfm. ERCA's stewardship staff will be pleased to guide youthrough the simple application process.