Run for the Trees

June 23, 2012

Summer Solstice Tree Festival

Edmonton’s urban forest is a little bigger thanks to adults, kids, scouts and seniors who took part in the first Summer Solstice Tree Festival to celebrate summer.

“Expanding Edmonton’s urban forest has so many benefits. It beautifies our city, keeps the air clean and conserves our water resources,” said Councillor Anderson, one of the festival participants. “The Summer Solstice Tree Festival provides a great opportunity for people to contribute to Edmonton’s green spaces as well as learn the value of protecting and caring for trees in our city.”

The festival, which took place at the John Janzen Nature Centre, started with an adult Root for Trees 5 km walk/run and Kids Tree-athlon. Each participant in the race received a seedling to plant at the finish line and a planting kit to take home. Syncrude provided the 1,950 seedlings that were planted. The festival is a partnership between the City of Edmonton, Syncrude and the Edmonton Horticultural Society.

“We are so pleased to support an initiative that will create a lasting legacy for future generations in Alberta’s capital city,” said Scott Sullivan, Syncrude President and Chief Executive Officer. “With over 6 million trees planted so far on our former mining areas, Syncrude understands the value of reforestation and renewing this valuable natural resource.”

The goal for the Summer Solstice Tree Festival, and a priority for the City, is to increase the number of trees in Edmonton and provide families and individuals the opportunity to play a part in developing Edmonton’s green spaces. A robust urban forest has many long-term benefits such as improving air and water quality, reducing energy costs, increasing property values, contributing to community pride and increasing quality of life.

“It is exciting to see the City of Edmonton, our partners, community groups and residents working together to expand our city’s green spaces,” said Lyall Brenneis, manager of Community Strategies and Development branch. “A sustainable urban forest not only enhances the beauty of our city, it contributes to the well being and quality of life for future Edmontonians.

Activities for the day included live music, bannock, nature walks and the opportunity to learn more about City projects, programs and services including composting demonstrations.

For more information on urban forest initiatives visit edmonton.ca/trees.

 

For more information:

Jeannette Wheeler

Neighbourhoods, Parks and Community Recreation

Title	Principal of Forestry
Telephone	780-442-0224