UPFRONT
New group aims to increase local urban canopy
American sycamores, Victoria Avenue North, Lindsay. Photo: Jamie Morris.
Concerned local citizens have formed a new organization to increase the urban tree canopy in Kawartha Lakes. Canopy Project Kawartha Lakes (CPKL) plans to increase the amount of tree coverage in the settled areas of the city — Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon, Omemee and other towns and villages in Kawartha Lakes. The urban tree canopy refers to the layer branches, stems and leaves that cover the ground as seen from above. As John Ireland, one of CPKL’s founders, explains, “many studies show that increasing the urban forest helps mitigate storm water damage, decrease pollution and home energy consumption, and increase property values.” As Ireland explains, trees can absorb a lot of rainwater, reducing the cost and effects of storm water runoff. Well-placed shade trees can actually lower the air temperature, reducing the need for air conditioning in warmer months. “The mental health benefits of an urban forest, not to mention the opportunities to address food insecurity by the strategic planting of fruit trees are also incredible benefits. And these are benefits that will be enjoyed by the generations to come,” he adds. The group is well into the planning phase of its first project and is meeting with community partners with the goal of using education, advocacy and hands-on projects to increase the number and quality of trees in the city. For more information or to get involved visit cpkl.ca or email info@cpkl.ca.
Share your pandemic stories How are you living during this pandemic? You can share your day-to-day stories and pictures of life during the COVID-19 restrictions with future generations, thanks to Kawartha Lakes Public Library. Have you tried new things or caught up on things you had forgotten you wanted to do? Did your kids draw pictures about life during the pandemic? Want to tell others, including future generations, about your work-fromhome experience? Do you have insights into a day in the life of an essential service provider? Whether you’re a senior or in kindergarten, the library wants to hear from you. Be a part of our shared community history and help others remember. No contribution is too small and there are no limits to how many contributions you can share. Please visit kawarthalakeslibrary.ca/covid19timecapsule to get started.
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www.lindsayadvocate.ca