Nearly 400 native trees and shrubs, including 175 tulip trees, have been planted at the Oil Museum of Canada in celebration of Lambton County's 175th anniversary.
The county partnered with the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) and Enbridge Fueling Futures Program to begin the multi-phase project in Oil Springs.
The goal is to eventually develop a mini-forest on part of the property, along with a walking trail.
“What better way to mark an anniversary than to establish a legacy mini-forest that will benefit generations to come,” said County of Lambton General Manager of Cultural Services Andrew Meyer. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community partners in making this anniversary project possible.”
The process will see native varieties planted one metre apart to help with growth and to "squeeze out" unwanted invasive species. Mulch and compost will also be added to simulate the kind of organic matter that would be found in a mature forest, read a media release.
Planting recently began and included over 35 volunteers and staff from the three partner organizations.
Aside from tulip trees, various other varieties were planted, including: sycamore, bur oak, red oak, swamp white oak, silver maple, Kentucky coffee tree, black chokeberry, and winterberry.
“This is a small but important step in a much larger planting and restoration project that will have a positive impact on our watershed,” said SCRCA Healthy Watershed Specialist Jessica Van Zwol. “Tree planting is a great way to retain soil and nutrients, which are needed for agricultural purposes and ensure healthy water quality in the Sydenham River watershed.”
Funding for the project was also provided by Environment and Climate Change Canada, EcoAction Community Funding Program, and Canadian Trees for Life.
