May 19, 2022
The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) and the City of Cornwall were recently joined by community volunteers in planting 400 native tree and shrub species to enhance riparian zones bordering the south branch of the Raisin River in Cornwall. The May 18 planting event took place on the north side of the Pitt and Tollgate intersection, with trees also planted at the nearby Snetsinger Park.
“We planted a diverse selection of species, including wild plum, sandbar willow, black chokeberry, white oak, and a variety of heritage apple species,” says Jessica Herrington, the RRCA’s Stewardship Coordinator. “This was a great opportunity for residents to have a direct and positive impact on our local environment, contribute to the area’s tree canopy, and provide community access to native, edible species.”
The trees and shrubs will help protect the riverbank from erosion, while enhancing habitat for fish, turtles, frogs, and other wildlife.
“This project to create a riparian buffer will help improve water quality and safeguard a critical spawning habitat,” says Angela Parker, the City of Cornwall’s Sustainability Project Coordinator. “Even though this site is in a high-traffic zone, it is still frequented by fish and turtles.”
The two tree planting projects have received funding support from the Government of Ontario’s Community Environment Fund, as well as Earth Day Canada.
For more information, please go to rrca.on.ca or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.