Remembering a deceased loved one, paying tribute or celebrating a newborn are all reasons someone might choose to dedicate a $1,500 tree in Nanaimo with the city’s new tree donation pilot program.
From now until July 26, residents can submit an application to dedicate a tree in Beaufort Park.
Patrick McIntosh, Nanaimo’s urban forestry coordinator, told the News Bulletin that the pilot builds on popular past dedication programs in the city, including a park bench program and trees with individual plaques.
“People are always looking to plant something in recognition of somebody or something and that was a motivating factor,” McIntosh said. “It’s also a way for people to give back to the community.”
For the pilot, 30 trees are available to be planted by a certified horticulturalist during planting season. The horticulturalist will also help with the tree selection process accounting for the planting location and the longevity.
READ MORE: $180K B.C. project uses trees to combat extreme heat waves in Vancouver
The $1,500 donation will be used to plant and care for the tree as well as fund any necessary replacement for the first decade. The tree will also be inventoried in the city’s NanaimoMap program available on its website, which includes the identifying information and any dedication or description provided.
According to the city, Beaufort Park was chosen due to being a place where the city believes it will provide the greatest environmental benefit while also being a place that can be easily monitored and cared for. If the program is successful, other locations will be chosen in later years.
McIntosh said a dedicated honour board is being planned at the park. The city has tried placing individual markers, “but found they just go missing, get broken or get stolen, so it’s really hard to keep those going.”
Since beginning the program in late April, he said the city has already received four applications.
In a press release, Mayor Leonard Krog called the program a “proactive approach” for promoting sustainable practices and enchancing the city.
“We anticipate that the tree donation pilot program will not only enrich our cityscape but also inspire future generations to prioritize environmental stewardship,” he said.
Those interested can fill out an application online or at the City of Nanaimo’s services and resource centre at 411 Dunsmuir St. Applications are first come, first serve.