A group promoting tree planting in Centre Wellington Township now has an urban forester to help with its programs for the coming year.
Mark Sherman, who lives in Guelph, will oversee the program that will include tree plants, celebrations, new initiatives.
Sherman will also act as the general manager of the Neighbourwoods office shared with the Elora Environmental Centre.
Sherman is a recent graduate of Ryerson University’s urban and regional planning school, and he specialized in environmental planning. He has been involved in Toronto’s urban forest community with work with Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF) and various community based initiatives.
In 2009 he was recognized for his work in community engagement and environmental sensitivity for a master plan for the Humber College Arboretum.
“We are very pleased to welcome him,” said Toni Ellis, of Neighbourwoods.
Sherman said he received the job through the federal stimulus package canned the Youth Eco program.
When it comes to doing forestry work, he said, “I’m kind of all over.” He noted that a large focus of the group will continue to be planing in industrial, commercial, and institutional areas in Centre Wellington.
“I’ll go out, meet people, develop site plans for planters,” he said, adding that it is important that the “right trees” for a specific area get planted.
He helped create the plan for Humber, and noted that it won an award.
“I love trees,” he said. “I really feel good about the work. Sherman noted that the work continues in promoting trees, even in winter.
On Feb. 4 the centre will be featuring a Tree Talk with Brenlee Robinson.
“She talks about trees and their effect on the community,” he said. He stated, particularly, that trees planted in school yards have been demonstrated to reduce bullying.
Anyone wanting more information can call Sherman at 519-846-0841.
