With the 150th anniversary as a province within Confederation quickly approaching, Ontario should mark the occasion by planting 150 million trees across the province, says Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott.
On Oct. 6, Arnott tabled a resolution in the Ontario Legislature calling on the province to work in partnership with municipalities, school boards, community organizations, businesses and the forestry industry to set a goal of planting 150 million trees, starting in 2017.
“When I first raised this idea at Wellington County council on June 25, it was very well received,” Arnott said.
“I decided to follow up with a Private Member’s Resolution and bring it to the floor of the Ontario Legislature.”
Arnott’s proposal is also intended to highlight the Wellington County’s Green Legacy Program.
First established in 2004, it is the largest municipal tree planting program in North America, supporting the planting of over 150,000 trees annually throughout the county.
The county has endorsed Arnott’s proposal, hoping it develops into a long-term provincial tree planting program, the MPP stated.
“The Green Legacy Program has been an amazing success,” said Arnott.
“County council and staff deserve enormous credit, and they should be proud of what they’ve achieved to encourage volunteerism, confront the challenge of climate change, and support agriculture. Green Legacy does all of this, and more.”
Arnott’s resolution is scheduled for debate and a vote in the Ontario Legislature on Oct. 22.
“I spoke with the Minister of Natural Resources today after question period, to inform him of my resolution,” Arnott said.
“I hope that MPPs from all parties can come together to support this. Working together, we can leave a positive legacy for future generations.”
