Markham helps residents plant trees for less with LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program

MARKHAM, ON – April 16, 2024 – For the 6^th year in a row, Markham residents looking to make their property greener can benefit from a City of Markham partnership with the Regional Municipality of York that offers discounted trees through LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests). Courtesy of the City of Markham, the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program offers a selection of over 30 native tree species to residential, multi-unit and commercial property owners for a subsidized price.

“The City of Markham is excited to once again offer this wonderful program to residents and to continue our partnership with York Region and LEAF,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “Spring is the ideal time for residents to make their property greener by planting trees and along with the benefits of having a beautiful outdoor space, improved air quality and increased physical and mental well-being, residents will be helping Markham to increase our tree canopy. I encourage residents to learn more about and participate in the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program.”

Endorsed by Markham's Trees for Tomorrow initiative, Markham property owners pay only $100 for deciduous trees and $50 for evergreen trees, from a select species list. There is a limit of five trees per property per year (space permitting) and availability is first come, first served. As part of the program, a LEAF arborist will meet with the homeowner to assess their yard’s sun, soil and spacing conditions and offer professional advice to help choose the right trees. Care instructions to help newly planted trees flourish are also provided. Learn more at yourleaf.org or call 416.413.9244.

“This is my second time using the LEAF program - everything recommended and planted three years ago has done very well. I am grateful for the help and support as I transition my property to native only species,” said Elena, a City of Markham resident.

Since 2008, the City of Markham has partnered with LEAF and the Regional Municipality of York to increase tree canopy coverage for its residents, with over 1,200 trees and 800 shrubs planted through the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program. This ongoing effort not only beautifies residential properties but also fosters a healthier and more sustainable urban environment for all Markham residents to enjoy. Some of the benefits that trees offer include stormwater management, improved air quality, summer cooling, improved wildlife habitat and enhanced physical and mental well-being.

“Planting trees is essential for fostering healthier and more resilient urban communities,” said Janet McKay, Executive Director at LEAF. “LEAF is thrilled to collaborate with the City of Markham to offer residents high-quality native tree-planting services at affordable prices so that everyone can enjoy a greener community.” 

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti’s Office: 
At mayorscarpitti@markham.ca.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:
media@markham.ca

LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests):
Justin Lewis, Marketing and Communications Lead at justin@yourleaf.org or 416.413.9244.

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with more than 357,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 headquartered companies and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy. 

About LEAF: LEAF is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting and improving the urban forest. LEAF teaches about trees and engages citizens in urban forest stewardship through various planting and education programs. The LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program is a subsidized tree planting program available to residential, commercial and multi-unit property owners in the City of Toronto, York Region and several municipalities in Durham Region. 
 

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