Have your say on the future of Vaughan’s trees

The City’s first-of-its-kind plan will inform the vision and recommendations for managing Vaughan’s urban forest

While walking through Vaughan’s parks and trails, what do you see? Perhaps the most striking feature is the abundance of trees. Vaughan‘s urban forests consist of every tree in the city, including in our yards, streets, ravines and parks. To help care for and protect all trees that have roots in our community, the City of Vaughan needs your input to develop its first-ever Urban Forest Management Plan!

The plan will include:

• a long-term vision to manage the urban forest.
• a financial analysis to guide implementation.
• goals, recommendations and targets to achieve the vision.
• information on the current state of Vaughan’s urban forest.

There are several ways to get involved in this new and exciting project.

Take the online survey

Trees provide many benefits, including improving air quality, physical and metal heath, and providing shade and cooling the air. Which of these benefits do you value the most in your community? What are the most important locations the City should prioritize to plant trees? Starting today, you can share your feedback on Vaughan’s urban forest by taking an online survey. It will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete and will be open until Friday, April 28.

Results from this survey will be used to inform the vision, goals and recommendations to create the framework of the Urban Forest Management Plan.

Participate in the art contest

Calling all artists – experienced or aspiring! Submit a photo of your tree artwork – which could include a drawing, painting, photograph or sculpture – to vaughan.ca/UrbanForest by Friday, April 28 at 11:59 p.m. for a chance to win.

The first-place winner will have their artwork featured on the front page of the Urban Forest Management Plan and will receive a tree dedication as part of the City’s Tree and Bench Dedication program. Second- and third-place winners will have their artwork featured within the plan and will receive an eco-friendly prize pack.

Once you’ve submitted your art, you will receive a confirmation email. All submissions will be revealed and displayed in an online gallery later this spring. For full contest details and to submit your artwork, visit vaughan.ca/UrbanForest.

Map Vaughan’s trees

Where would you like to see urban forests improved or expanded in Vaughan? Share your feedback by dropping a pin on this interactive map of the city. You can also submit photos of your favourite spots around the city with lots of trees and see  how other residents have weighed in by clicking the points on the map. The deadline to participate is Friday, April 28.

Register for the virtual Open House
Register to attend a virtual Open House on Monday, April 3 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. via Zoom. This is your chance to learn more about this new project and participate in an interactive Q and A session. A recording of the event will be shared on vaughan.ca/UrbanForest following the meeting. Registration is encouraged.

Looking for an activity for Earth Hour?

Drop by the City’s Earth Hour event on Saturday, March 25, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Bring your kids to have fun at our arts and crafts station and participate in a screen-less activity to celebrate Earth Hour! You can submit the artwork they create to the Urban Forest Management Plan art contest.

Why should we care about Vaughan’s urban forest now to ensure its 20-year longevity?

Trees are an important resource. They are integral to the city's character and enhance the quality of life for our community. They provide oxygen; improve mental and physical health; provide shelter for insects, birds and other animals; provide shelter and food for humans and animals, like fruits and nuts. They also cool the air, save water, reduce noise pollution, capture stormwater runoff and beautify the community.

Learn more about the City’s Urban Forest Management Plan at vaughan.ca/UrbanForest.

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