LONDON, Ont. - May 4, 2013 - Ed Holder, Member of Parliament for London West, on behalf of Canada’s Environment Minister, the Honourable Peter Kent, today announced funding from the EcoAction Community Funding Program for a new environmental project in London, Ontario. ReForest London will receive $55,000 in federal funding over three years to support local action to protect wildlife and natural habitat.
“ReForest London has as its goal to plant one million trees in our City of London, the Forest City. What we all know is that trees play a significant role in Londoners’ quality of life—environmentally, culturally and economically. ReForest London, through its strong community partnerships, will help leave an incredible legacy of trees for our kids and theirs,” said MP Holder.
“Our government is taking real action to address the environmental priorities of Canadians and ensure we have clean air, clean water, and biologically diverse land for generations to come,” said Minister Kent. “EcoAction Community Funding supports community groups across the country willing to take concrete action through on-the-ground environmental projects. We are proud to partner with these organizations that are committed to conserving Canada’s natural legacy.”
As part of this project, community volunteers will improve woodland areas and wildlife habitat by planting native trees and shrubs that will improve 2.5 hectares of land at public parks and natural areas across London. These activities will be done with the help of at least 500 volunteers, who will be trained in effective tree planting techniques. The volunteers will also learn about the value of trees to local ecosystems and to human and environmental health.
“We are thrilled with the funding from Environment Canada to plant 3,500 trees and shrubs in 10 London parks. We'll work with Londoners who care about our Forest City to green our community and contribute to London's Million Tree Challenge. Thank you for the opportunity to contribute,” said Julie Ryan, Director of Programs for ReForest London.
The EcoAction Community Funding Program supports projects that rehabilitate, protect or enhance the natural environment, and builds the capacity of communities and individuals to ensure future protection. This year, the Government of Canada is providing over $4 million for over 100 new projects under this Program.
