December 6, 2024

RRCA's Claudia Munafo (left) and Lisa Van De Ligt (centre) with a local resident picking up his seedlings last spring.

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) has launched the spring seedling edition of its 2025 over-the-counter tree program, which provides property owners in the RRCA’s watershed jurisdiction with easy access a selection of native tree and shrub species at lower costs.

“The goal of this program is to enhance our region’s tree cover, which helps keep our watersheds healthy and resilient,” says Lisa Van De Ligt, RRCA’s Team Lead for Communications and Stewardship. “Trees can mitigate flooding and erosion, combat climate change by capturing carbon, provide food for humans and wildlife, improve water and air quality, enhance landscapes, and even reduce a home’s energy costs.”

The RRCA’s spring seedling application form is now available at rrca.on.ca/Trees, along with descriptions and planting considerations for the available species. 

“Species on the list include returning favourites like balsam fir, bur oak, eastern white cedar, and more,” adds Van De Ligt. “We are also including new species such as red pine, red oak, and pussy willow. We encourage residents in our jurisdiction to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their properties with native trees.”

The RRCA offers a variety of forestry programs and services such as a full-service planting program for landowners wanting to add 500 trees or more. It also hosts annual tree giveaways and works with its member municipalities to organize community planting events. This year, the RRCA added nearly 52,000 trees in the region, part of 1.3 million trees planted since 1994.

Landowners, teachers, businesses, municipalities, and community groups are encouraged to reach out to the RRCA for support with tree planting initiatives. For more information, visit rrca.on.ca/Trees or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.