City of Peterborough celebrates National Forest Week

full bike rack

trees in pots

Peterborough, ON – The City of Peterborough invites residents to celebrate National Forest Week with two important events that will support the City’s urban forest canopy; a Tree Give Away on Wednesday, September 20 and Trees 4 Peterborough, a community tree planting event on Saturday, September 23.

“These events are a perfect way to celebrate National Forest Week,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell, Chair of Council’s Arenas, Parks and Recreation portfolio. “There are countless benefits that trees provide our community, including reducing flooding, improving air quality, increasing property values and mitigating climate change.”

National Tree Day Tree Give Away on Wednesday, September 20

Event: Tree Give Away
Date: Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Time slots: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: 300 Hunter St. E, at the top of Armour Hill (parking lot north of the Peterborough Museum and Archives)

While supplies last, City residents can drop by to receive one free tree per household for planting on their property within the City of Peterborough. Proof of residence is required.

The trees are available on a first come, first served basis. No registration is required. The Tree Give Away will take place during two timeslots to accommodate the varied schedules of residents, with 150 trees available from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 150 trees available from 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Trees 4 Peterborough Planting Event on Saturday, September 23

The City of Peterborough will host Trees 4 Peterborough, a community tree planting event together with event sponsors RBC, The Excelsior Group, Peterborough Homes, Merritt Home Hardware and with the support of GreenUP staff and volunteer support from the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

A total of 500 potted trees will be planted.

Event: Tree Planting Event
Date: Saturday, September 23 (rain or shine)
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or when planting is finished
Location: Bears Creek Park, 1210 Franklin Dr. 

Volunteers are required for this event, beginning at 9 a.m. until approximately 1 p.m. or until the trees are planted, or as long as individuals can stay. Volunteer hours are available for high school students.

Residents who are interested in volunteering are asked to register online in advance on the City’s website at peterborough.ca/TreePlanting.