LCN is the local delivery agent for Forests Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program for the Niagara Region. By partnering with private contractors, other funder’s and agencies, Land Care Niagara works with rural landowners to promote and execute successful tree planting projects that increase forest interior and reconnect our fragmented natural areas.
The Niagara Natural Heritage Corridor Program (NNHCP) will see hundreds of thousands of native trees strategically planted in the Niagara Region. Planting areas are based on the Natural Heritage Ecological Framework map (click here to see map) produced in 1998. Utilizing leading-edge landscape ecology principals, satellite imagery, Geographic Information Systems, and the habitat spatial model the framework was developed in conjunction with Ontario Power Services, local ecologists, naturalists and foresters. The framework document and its recommendations deal with the issues of forest fragmentation, loss of forest cover, wildlife habitat and bio-diversity in the Niagara Region. By targeting our conservation efforts to increase forest interior and reconnect our fragmented natural areas we contribute to a healthier Niagara and help secure a legacy for our children and future generations.
In 2000, Land Care Niagara took a major step forward in implementing the framework. With inital funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation and on-going support from landowners and various environmental groups we have planted over 750,000 native trees and shrubs in a focused manner directed towards the protection and enhancement of Niagara’s natural resources.
If you own land in the Niagara Region and are interested in having trees planted on your property you might be eligible for this program. Properties must have a minimum of one hectare (2.5 acres) to plant into trees in order to qualify for the 50 Million Tree program through Forests Ontario. This program is not however fully funded and does require the landowner to make a financial contribution. For more information please visit our FAQ page or contact us. If your property falls within the framework areas (click here for map) you will help LCN achieve our goal of priority plantings in the Niagara Region. Priority planting is preferred, although not a requirement to partake in this great program.
Click on the picture above to get a closer look at the framework