Cumberland City Councillor Stephen Blais, is pleased to announce hundreds of new trees will be planted by the City of Ottawa in Orléans to help enhance streetscapes.

“Tree’s really complete a community,” says Blais. “In addition to increasing property values, they help improve air quality – and as someone who suffers from asthma I know first hand how important that is.”

Beginning October 1, more than 200 trees will be planted in the Cumberland portion of Orléans. These trees are being planted to replace trees damaged by rabbits as well as new tress through the City’s Trees in Trust program.

“The Trees in Trust Program is an excellent opportunity for residents to enhance their community by requesting city owned trees to be planting along roadways,” adds Blais. “At no cost to the homeowner, a tree can be installed along the City right of way – we simply ask the resident to assist the proper care of the tree.”

Program Details:

The City’s Trees in Trust program needs your help to find suitable locations for street trees. Street trees are available by request on a first come, first served basis. If your City-owned street frontage lacks a tree and you have the time and commitment to help care for one, please contact us.

• There will be no charge to the homeowner (supply and planting will be provided by the City).
• The program applies only to homes with street frontage (the space between your property line and the roadway).
• The property owner must pledge to assist with the proper tree care (watering) for the first three years of the tree’s life. Instructions will be provided.
• Trees will be a minimum size of 50 mm diameter, or 2 to 3 meters in height.
• Limit of one tree per single fronting household or two trees per corner lot.
• The proposed location must meet the Trees in Trust program criteria.

Program criteria:

The following criteria will be used to assess potential planting sites:

• Is there enough space? (other trees or obstacles must be a minimum of 7m away)
• Are there overhead or underground utilities?
• Does the soil quality appear to be acceptable for tree growth?
• Are there any conflicting uses on the planting site?
• Has the request been made by the homeowner? (i.e. the person who pays taxes on the property)
• Is there an obvious conflict with traffic safety requirements or City maintenance (i.e. sightlines or snow removal operations)