Tree Planting – Tree planting is the process of planting seedlings, usually in groups or rows. The goal is to restore and create habitat for wildlife and to provide the future benefits of forest cover.
Generally, plantings are undertaken to offset the effects of land clearing and human development on ecosystem function and on climate. Trees can also be planted as a symbolic gesture to honor, memorialize, or celebrate a person or event.
One of the most common ways to plant trees is through a volunteer effort. However, it is important to keep in mind that a successful planting requires careful planning and preparation prior to the day of the event. For this reason, it is critical to secure all necessary permits and permissions before launching any Tree Planting project.
Planting projects can range from small community efforts to massive reforestation efforts. The likelihood of project success greatly improves with clearly defined objectives, a selection of appropriate species and the consideration of site conditions and limitations. For example, a shady site should not be planted with open-grown deciduous trees such as maple or oak. Instead, shade-tolerant species such as eastern hemlock or blackgum should be planted.
Moreover, it is important to consider who will care for the trees after they are planted. It is not cost effective to have a planting project with no follow-up plan in place. In addition to ensuring that the trees are properly cared for, this will also minimize any liability issues.
A good starting point is to ask local government or landowners for assistance in financing the project. For example, in business parks, the corporations located there may be willing to sponsor a reforestation program that will reduce landscape maintenance costs and stormwater utility fees, as well as increase property values. Other options include working with local schools to organize a student environmental education or service-learning class. The class can then be involved in the planting event and work with volunteers to care for the trees after they are planted.
For larger corporate and philanthropic sponsored plantings, it is a good idea to hire a professional planting crew or use a reputable reforestation organization. A planting crew will be able to prepare the site, plant the seedlings, monitor and care for them, and ensure that the project is carried out to your specifications.
There are 60,000 different species of trees, a third of which are threatened with extinction. Unfortunately, most tree-planting initiatives only plant a tiny fraction of these species. This outcome – monocrop, sterile landscapes that do nothing to support the biodiversity of our planet – is not what any environmentally conscious corporation or brand should be looking for.
North Bay Tree Company
41 Lakeshore Dr.
North Bay, Ontario P1A 2A1