Achi news desk-
Reep Green Solutions has set itself an ambitious goal for 2024 – planting 400 trees on 285 private properties in Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo and Guelph.
The backyard tree planting program offers them to residents at a subsidized cost. Customers pay around $160 to $230 per tree, depending on the species. The cities then cover the costs of consultation, delivery, planting and handling of the new tree.
“In general, the trees we plant, you might be able to find at a nursery for a similar price and then you’ll be on your own for part of the planting and shipping,” explained Aaron Boonstra, tree operations coordinator for Rip Green Solutions.
Since public land cannot accommodate the required tree plantings, the program was created with the aim of involving private landowners.
“We look at things like the type of soil, whether it’s a type of sand or clay, how much sunlight the area receives, how the drainage is. All of this will help shape what type of wood we would choose for the property.” Boonstra said.
Since 2019, Rip has planted over 1,000 trees on 749 properties. They hope that number will be even higher in 2024.
“We will meet with 285 property owners, [that’s] our goal That’s going to be about 400 trees,” Boonstra added. “I think we’ve planted a little over 100 trees, so we’ll aim for 150 or so this spring and then do more like 250 in the fall, if we can.”
The program has already maxed out this year for residents living in Waterloo, but those living in Golf, Cambridge and Kitchener can still sign up.
“We have 13 different native species in Ontario. We try to offer a variety of small trees, big trees, trees that produce flowers, some that produce edible fruit and some that are evergreen, deciduous, to really maximize the best tree in the best place,” Boonstra explained.
On Thursday, Kitchener resident Beth Wilson received a red oak tree and a sugar maple tree. She thought the price was great, especially since she didn’t have to plant them.
“It’s been wonderful also because, you know, it’s kind of hard work so we’re happy to have the support,” she said.
Wilson isn’t sure if she’ll add more trees to her property, but she’s thinking about it. For now, she’s happy with the two new additions.
“We have the space. We lost some trees in a big storm a few years ago, and we want to continue building the forest around us. We love the animals that come here. We love the wildlife. And this will beautify our property, give us a little more shade.” Wilson said.
Property owners interested in Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge or Guelph can apply for the program on Rip’s website.
