Port Coquitlam is hoping to achieve a "greener city" status.
As part of the a municipality pilot project, volunteers are being called on to help plant 300 native trees in Coutts Park (1070 Coutts Way) in the weeks ahead while also removing invasive species that crowd and endanger local ecosystems.
This includes:
- Beaked Hazelnut
- Birch
- Bitter Cherry
- Black Hawthorne
- Douglas and Grand Fir
- Pacific Crab Apple
- Red Alder
- Sitka Spruce
- Vine and Bigleaf Maple
- Western Red Cedar
Invasive species like blackberry plants are earmarked for removal as they can disturb local forests, pastures, roadsides and streambanks by crowding low-growing vegetation.
In a release today (Nov. 19), PoCo Mayor Brad West says it's a priority for city council to protect local trees and promote natural resources.
"This is a great opportunity for residents to help enhance our community and parks in a hands-on way," he explains, noting more outreach initiatives like these could be planned if the demand is there.
"Trees not only create shade and beauty in the spaces we enjoy, but play an important role in offsetting the effects of climate change."
Earth Day Canada and Tree Canada granted the city with funds to kickstart the tree-planting project, approving Port Coquitlam's request as part of the city's overall commitment to preserving local environments.
The Greener City outreach program will be meeting at Coutts Park on Nov. 28 and Dec. 5 — both sessions are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
People of all ages are welcome, supplies will be provided such as shovels, water and snacks, but interested participants are asked to come prepared by wearing gloves, appropriate footwear and clothing.
For more information or to register for either of the dates, you're encouraged to visit the city's website.
