Canada Invests $101 Million in Alberta Reforestation Efforts

Canada's federal government has committed an additional $101 million to support reforestation initiatives across Alberta, enhancing the ongoing 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program.

On July 21, Corey Hogan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced the funding at the Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area, a beneficiary of the 2BT program.

Hogan emphasized the multifaceted benefits of trees, stating, "They clean our air, cool our cities, and strengthen community resilience." He highlighted that planting trees is about more than replacing losses from wildfires and industry; it's about restoring balance and renewing connections with nature.

The majority of the funding will support projects throughout the province, including initiatives on the Siksika Nation and on farmland unsuitable for cash crops.

In the Calgary area, the funding will bolster the Junior Forest Wardens in their annual efforts to plant 10,000 trees at the Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area.

Mike Toffan, Executive Director of Project Forest, noted the challenges faced by the Junior Forest Wardens due to rising tree costs. He expressed gratitude for the 2BT program and industry partners, stating that the Calgary and Alberta Junior Forest Wardens will no longer have to bear the financial burden of purchasing trees.

Hogan underscored the broader impact of the 2BT program, aiming to cultivate a culture where trees are continually valued and afforestation efforts persist beyond the program's duration.

He also pointed out the economic benefits of forest stewardship and tree planting, noting that while not the primary goal, these activities provide economic advantages.

Toffan highlighted the support from Calgary corporations like Pembina Pipeline and Kiros Pipelines, which have leveraged the 2BT program to support Project Forest.

Tree planting has offered economic benefits through carbon credits and has helped firms achieve corporate social responsibility goals.

Deborah Yedlin, CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of tree planting for Calgary companies, noting that it provides employees with a tangible purpose and contributes to environmental sustainability.

She also highlighted the benefits to the tourism sector, suggesting that reforestation efforts can enhance the visitor economy by creating richer environments for activities like cycling and wildlife observation.