$61 million to launch new tree-planting program in Ontario’s Crown forestland

Tree-planting efforts across Canada are playing a large part in tackling the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.

MP Marc Serré announced this week a joint investment of more than $61 million to launch a new tree-planting program in Ontario’s Crown forestland through 2026.

The program will see Ontario and Canada provide equal funding for silvicultural activities — including site preparation and tree planting — to strengthen ecosystems in areas with little or no tree cover, including areas disturbed by forest fires. This tree planting initiative complements trees planted by forest managers to regenerate forests following harvesting activities and should enable the planting of approximately 60 million trees by the end of the program, depending on the availability of suitable Crown forestland.

"Diverse forests have many benefits: they capture the carbon in growing trees to reduce emissions and help in the fight against climate change; they help regulate hot temperatures in cities; they reduce the threats posed by wildland fires and flooding; and they support human health by creating more green spaces for recreational activities and helping Canadians connect with nature. By planting the right tree species in the right places, the governments of Canada and Ontario are working toward a greener and more resilient future for our forests and communities for generations to come," says a news release.

The 2 Billion Trees program is part of the Government of Canada’s broader approach to nature-based climate solutions. Tree planting helps to clean the air, keep neighborhoods cool in the summer, create jobs, and fight climate change while protecting nature.

“Trees are essential to our lives: they clean the air we breathe, the shade they provide makes our urban spaces more enjoyable, they give new habitats for wildlife, and they help us adapt to our changing climate," said Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. 

“Trees planted as part of the 2 Billion Trees program will not only help tackle climate change but also support the expansion of Canada’s forests and the restoration of important habitats, all while ensuring there is cleaner air and sustainable jobs in communities across Canada," added Serré,

Since 2021, the Government of Canada has been engaging directly with individual organizations across the country to plant trees over 10 years to help meet the Government of Canada’s commitment to planting two billion trees.