oakvillegreen

From Monarchs to Whales: A Youth-Led Initiative

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:02:50 GMT

What began in Oakville as a youth-led idea has grown into an international conservation

effort.

In 2024, a group of local students launched the Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project,

connecting the April 8 total solar eclipse with the migration route of the endangered

monarch butterfly. With strong community support, the initiative distributed more than

400,000 pairs of ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses across Canada and the United

States, while raising awareness for pollinator conservation and habitat protection.

In its first year, the project earmarked $75,000 in conservation funding, supporting

organizations such as the Canadian Wildlife Federation, Monarch Joint Venture,

Oakville Green, Burlington Green as well as university research and local environmental

initiatives.

The impact of the project was also recognized provincially. In 2025, the team received

the Ontario Nature Youth Leadership Award as part of their Conservation Awards

program—an acknowledgment of the creativity, dedication, and teamwork behind the

initiative, led by Taylor, Paige, Maggie, Ellen, and Emilie. The recognition reflects not

only the scale of the project, but the strength of youth-led environmental action.

What started as a simple idea—connecting a natural event with a migration story—grew

into something much more meaningful. With the support of their community, the team

demonstrated how youth-led initiatives can create real, measurable impact.

Building on that momentum, they have now taken their efforts global with the launch of

The Fin Whale Eclipse Project. Inspired by the August 12th, 2026 total solar eclipse,

whose path closely mirrors the migration route of the Atlantic fin whale, this new

initiative shifts focus from land to ocean—while continuing the same mission of

connecting people to nature through shared experiences.

The goal is to help people safely experience this rare natural event while raising

awareness and support for ocean and whale conservation. Like the original project, it

combines education, community engagement, and tangible impact—this time on an

international scale.

While the project is expanding globally, its roots remain firmly connected to the Oakville

community and organizations like Oakville Green that continue to support youth-driven

environmental action.

To learn more about the Fin Whale Eclipse Project, visit: www.finwhaleeclipse.eu

You can also explore the original Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project here:

www.monarchbutterflyeclipse.com

What is a Tree Protection Zone?

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:16:35 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

A Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) in the Town of Oakville is the designated area around a tree that must remain completely undisturbed during construction or site activity. Its purpose is to safeguard the tree’s roots, trunk, and canopy from damage caused by excavation, equipment, grading, or compaction.

Situations Where Tree Protection Is Required:

Any construction near trees, including additions, garages, decks, pools, driveways, grading, or utility work.
Before removing a private tree that is 15 cm or larger in diameter, since a permit and inspection are required.
When applying for building or development permits, if trees are present on or near the site.
When work may disturb soil, such as excavation, trenching, or heavy equipment movement.
When storing materials or equipment on a site where trees could be affected.

Why the Town Requires a TPZ?

Protect the urban forest and maintain canopy cover.
Prevent root damage, soil compaction, and trunk injury during construction.
Ensure healthy, stable trees remain on both private and public lands.

What is the size of the TPZ?

The size of the TPZ is typically based on the diameter of the tree, with larger trees requiring larger protected areas.
The town may impose higher standards depending on the tree’s size, species, health, and site conditions.

Where can I learn more about compliance with Oakville’s tree protection policies and permit requirements?

In 2024, the Town of Oakville announced updates to its Private Tree Protection bylaw, which aim to further support Oakville’s goal of 40% tree canopy cover by 2057.

Read more about the updated by-law in the staff report to council from March, 2024 here:

https://pub-oakville.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=67697

Sources:

The Town of Oakville. (n.d.). Town tree protection during construction procedure.. Retrieved January 5, 2026, from https://www.oakville.ca/town-hall/policies-procedures/tree-protection-and-tree-canopy-preservation-policy/town-tree-protection-during-construction-procedure/

Why Be Happy to Have an Oak as Your Street Tree?

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:51:10 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

Oak trees are remarkable. Of the 11 native oak species in Canada, 10 grow in Ontario, and Oakville, situated between the Carolinian and Great Lakes–St. Lawrence forest regions, was once rich with these mighty trees. Today, urban growth, climate pressures, and invasive species have made mature oaks increasingly rare, though a few still stand tall across the community.

Are oaks one of the most valuable urban trees you can have?

Absolutely! Here are just a few of the reasons:

Native oaks are biodiversity powerhouses! According to some sources, oaks support more life than almost any other tree genus in North America.
Because so many organisms depend on them, oaks function as keystone species — their presence boosts the entire ecosystem, and their loss causes a major drop in biodiversity.
They are large and long-lived trees, allowing significant carbon storage.
Their big canopies offer shade and energy saving during the summer.
Oaks are resilient to heat, drought and urban stress, and their sturdy and balanced structure makes them safer in storms.
Their deep roots improve stormwater absorption and reduce flooding
Oaks hold on to chlorophyll longer and they are late to drop their leaves. THEY ARE SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL!

How do oak trees help your vegetable gardens and orchards?

More insects, birds, and soil life around an oak can improve pollination and overall garden health.

What do I do with so many acorns falling on the ground?

If your tree produces acorns, this means the tree is mature enough to reproduce, and also that the tree had enough resources from previous years. Acorns are nature’s hard-shelled treasures ! Here are a few suggestions of what to do with them:

Leave them on the ground for wildlife (unless they are a tripping hazard).
Collect them and sort them for propagatiion or donation to a local nursery.
Dispose of them in your yard waste.

Oaks are woven into Oakville’s cultural identity, reflecting the town’s history and natural heritage. They don’t just line streets and parks, they define them!

Creating a Berrytopia in Your Garden: Why it’s Important and Who it Attracts

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:11:09 GMT

A garden of native, berry‑rich plants that nourish wildlife year‑round! A Berrytopia isn’t just lovely: it is a powerful step toward restoring nature right where you live. These plants are ecological powerhouses. In the fall, they produce nutrient and fat-rich berries that serve as a critical food source for more than 60 bird species in Ontario. Vireos, thrushes, cedar waxwings, and many other migratory birds rely on these berries to fuel their long journeys.

Beyond food, shrubs provide essential structure within the landscape. Their dense branching creates safe nesting sites and offers shelter from predators, wind, and harsh weather, features that open lawns and sparse gardens simply cannot provide. By mimicking the complexity of natural ecosystems, layered planting turns even small spaces into vibrant, resilient communities where biodiversity can flourish.

In spring, their blossoms support a wide diversity of pollinators. The nectar-rich flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. These insects, in turn, become an important food source for insectivorous birds such as flycatchers and swallows, linking these plants directly to the broader food web.

Many understory shrubs also serve as host plants for butterflies, supporting them through their entire life cycle. Red-osier dogwood and alternate-leaved dogwood, for example, host Azure butterflies during their larval stage. New Jersey tea and serviceberry support additional species such as mottled duskwing, tiger swallowtail, admiral, and viceroy butterflies. In the genus Viburnums; highbush cranberry, arrowwood and nannyberry provide a host habitat for the hummingbird clearwing moth and the samia cynthia moth.

Several native Ontario shrubs have a critical role in restoration because they stabilize soils, support diverse wildlife, and thrive in disturbed or changing environments. Species such as red‑osier and grey dogwood, viburnums, and serviceberries provide food, habitat, and erosion control, making them some of the most ecologically important shrubs to include in restoration projects or your backyard.

Even planting a single native shrub can significantly increase the biodiversity in your yard. These plants provide food, shelter, nesting habitat, and host sites, supporting wildlife at every stage of life and helping to restore the layered habitat that healthy ecosystems depend on.

Inspired to add shrubs to your landscape? Find a beautiful selection of native species at our upcoming Native Plant Sale.

Trees are SuperCool: Supercooling as a Winter Survival Strategy

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:33:50 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

What Is Supercooling?

In cold winter months, trees need to prevent intracellular freezing, especially in delicate tissues like buds, flowers, and new shoots. Supercooling is a process where water inside a tree’s cells stays liquid even below 0°C, avoiding ice formation that would otherwise harm cell membranes. It is a controlled, temporary state that buys the tree time during cold snaps.

How Does Supercooling Work?

Trees remove ice-forming particles from cells
They increase sugars and solutes to lower the freezing point, serving as natural anti-freeze.
They move water out of cells so ice forms only outside.
They use flexible cell walls to tolerate shrinkage.

Which Trees Use Supercooling?

Many trees rely on supercooling, but different tissues use it in different ways. In temperate and boreal species, buds are especially known for their ability to supercool deeply. Some common supercoolers are: Cherry, Apple, Plum, Maple, Birch, Beech, Oak, Aspen, Willow, Spruce, Fir, and Larch.

Does Supercooling Have Limits?

Supercooling has limits. Once temperatures fall below a species’ tolerance, ice forms inside the cells and the tree dies. For many tree species, the limit is around –40 °C; below that point, ice forms inside the cells and causes fatal damage. This temperature threshold explains why some trees can not survive in extremely cold climates, or they use other strategies.

Winter Sowing 101

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:36:14 GMT

An easy, eco-friendly way to start seeds outdoors! Seeds that require cold stratification are planted in recycled containers, which act as mini greenhouses during winter. They naturally experience the cold and germinate in spring, producing strong, resilient seedlings ready to thrive in local conditions.

Invasive Fact Sheet: Canada Thistle

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 18:30:54 GMT

Canada Thistle: Identification, Threats, & Removal

Looking to learn more about Canada Thistle? Download our fact sheet here to help protect Oakville from invasive species!

Invasive Fact Sheet: Field Bindweed

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 18:10:10 GMT

Field Bindweed: Identification, Threats, & Removal

Looking to learn more about Field Bindweed? Download our fact sheet here to help protect Oakville from invasive species!

Black spots on maple leaves?

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:10:35 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

Tar Spot on Maples

Have you noticed round or irregular black spots on your maple leaves in late summer? These markings often look like drops of tar—hence the name tar spot.

What Is Maple Tar Spot?

Maple tar spot is a common fungal disease caused by fungi in the genus Rhytisma. In Oakville, the most noticeable cases occur on Norway maples - non-native fast-growing trees planted on streets and parks throughout the city.

Will Maple Tar Spot Kill My Tree?

No. Tar spot is primarily a cosmetic issue. It rarely harms the overall health of the tree, though it can cause some early leaf drop due to stress. Even when infected, most trees continue to function normally through the season, storing energy in their roots and forming buds for next spring.

How Can We Prevent Tar Spot?

Good sanitation is key. Rake up fallen leaves and send them to your Town’s or Region’s composting facility, where high temperatures will destroy the pathogen. Managing tar spot requires leaf cleanup both in the fall and during summer. If you compost leaves at home, be aware that most backyard compost piles don’t reach temperatures high enough to kill the fungal pathogen.

Do We Spray to Cure Maple Tar Spot?

Generally, no. Because tar spot is mostly cosmetic and already widespread in our area, fungicides are rarely recommended and often ineffective. They also end up in soil and waterways, so unnecessary use should be avoided. If your tree appears to be in poor overall health, consult a certified arborist. In severe cases, and only with proper assessment, targeted fungicide treatments may be applied at specific times of the year.

Sources:

Hsiang, T., Tian, L. X., & Sopher, C. (2008). Tar spot of maple: Where did it come from and is it getting worse? Horticulture Review, 26(1), 35–37. University of Guelph; Canadian Tree Fund. Retrieved January 5, 2026, from https://canadiantreefund.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2008-Maple-Tar-Spot.pdf

Independent Tree. (2022, July 20). Maple tar spot: Identification, prevention & treatment. Independent Tree. Retrieved January 5, 2026, from https://www.independenttree.com/maple-tar-spot/

Toronto Master Gardeners. (n.d.). Tar spot of maples. Toronto Master Gardeners. Retrieved January 5, 2026, from https://www.torontomastergardeners.ca/gardeningguides/tar-spot-of-maples/

Invasive Fact Sheet: Phragmites (Common Reed)

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 03:45:19 GMT

Phragmites: Identification, Threats, & Removal

Looking to learn more about Phragmites? Download our fact sheet here to help protect Oakville from invasive species!

Oakvillegreen’s 2025 Achievements!

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 19:57:53 GMT

Our Impact Your Support

This year, we were thrilled to engage our community through a wide range of hands-on environmental programs. More than 1200 volunteers participated in stewardship activities, and 950 students joined us for Biodiversity Discovery Walks, Bring Monarchs Back and Maples and Oaks programs, as well as in various stewardship events, each one designed to spark curiosity, connection, and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

Our Green Connections for Adults 55+ program also continued to flourish, welcoming over 400 participants to nature walks, forest bathing sessions, nature art workshops, and tree-planting experiences. These moments of learning, creativity, and reflection helped build a strong and supportive community of nature lovers.

We hit a record high for tree planting this year, with community members helping to plant 3,034 native trees that support healthier ecosystems and greener neighbourhoods. Stewardship teams worked just as hard on the ground, removing 117 bags of invasive plants to make room for native species to thrive.

Our pollinators benefited as well, with 526 native perennials planted to provide essential habitat and food. During our Milkweed Challenge, the community rallied once again as 200 milkweed plants were sold through our Native Plant Sale, helping support monarch butterflies across the region.

We are especially grateful to all volunteers, corporate and community groups who joined us this season in planting trees to grow Oakville’s urban forest. A heartfelt thank-you to Oakville Community Foundation , Human Nature Projects (HNP), Dr. David R. Williams PS, St. Mildred’s- Lightbourn School, Forest Trail Public School, Collins Aerospace, RBC, Halton Region, Oakville Chinese Seniors Network Society, Appleby College, TD, Siemens, Siemens Energy, Tree Canada, DLL Canada, Grant Thornton LLP, and the Town of Oakville for your support, time, and commitment to building a greener, more resilient community!

What an inspiring year, filled with shared energy, meaningful action, and lasting impact on our local habitats. We are excited for everything 2026 will bring and look forward to another impactful year. Thank you for contributing to a greener, more resilient Oakville - with sincere appreciation to our funders, supporters, community partners, and volunteers.

Growing a Greener Future: A New Mini Forest at the Halton Regional Centre

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 21:31:56 GMT

This fall, we were thrilled to complete another mini forest project in Oakville — this one in partnership with Halton Region. With the help of enthusiastic employee volunteers, we planted 357 native trees and shrubs at the Halton Regional Centre, transforming a simple turf area into a thriving pocket of biodiversity.

What was once a grassy lawn is now the beginning of a vibrant mini forest designed to mimic the complexity of a natural ecosystem. Each tree and shrub plays a role — from providing food and shelter for birds and insects to improving soil health, capturing carbon, and cooling the surrounding area.

This project also offered a wonderful opportunity to highlight the growing importance of green infrastructure in urban environments. Miyawaki forests — the model we follow for these plantings — are believed to grow up to 10 times faster, 30 times denser, and support significantly more biodiversity than conventional forests. Because they establish quickly and can be created even on small plots of land, they provide an inspiring solution for cities working to build climate resilience.

Beyond their ecological value, projects like this strengthen our communities. They support local biodiversity, create lasting environmental benefits, and help raise awareness about the importance of climate action and restoring natural habitats right where we live and work.

At the same time, caring for the land is deeply connected to reconciliation. This work reflects our shared responsibility to honour Indigenous knowledge, respect the land’s history, and contribute to the healing of relationships with Indigenous Peoples through meaningful, hands-on action.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Halton Region Climate Change & Sustainability, Indigenous Relations, Public Works, Corporate Services, and to every volunteer who came out to help. Your energy and commitment made this transformation possible.

Together, we’re growing a greener, healthier, and more resilient community — one mini forest at a time!

Conservation Halton Watershed Steward Award 2025

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:59:35 GMT

Oakvillegreen’s president, Karen Brock, was awarded a Conservation Halton (CH) Stewardship Award on Saturday, October 4, 2025. The CH Stewardship Awards recognize those individuals in the region who have shown outstanding leadership and commitment to environmental and conservation projects in the Halton Region over many years. The award was presented at an event held by Conservation Halton and the Hamilton Conservation Authority at the newly rehabilitated Area 8 Conservation Park (Milton, ON).

Karen has been a dedicated leader and volunteer for over 20 years in Halton. Starting with schoolyard naturalization projects in Oakville, she expanded her scope as the President of the environmental charity Oakvillegreen Conservation Association, which is responsible for planting nearly 45,000 trees in Oakville. Her restoration efforts on her own property and in the Cedar Springs community (Burlington, ON) have made a big contribution to improving the natural environment for all.

All the award attendees enjoyed a tour of Area 8’s new trails and restoration sites and even had a chance to canoe on the lake. It is a former quarry that began its transformation in 2021 and is adjacent to Kelso Conservation Area in Milton. Plan a visit to learn about the long journey to restore habitat and create a new public park.

Karen says thank you to her colleagues at Oakvillegreen Conservation Association for continued inspiration!

As always, she’s looking forward to her next big project...

Biodiversity Action in Oakville Schools

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:54:52 GMT

It has been a busy spring filled with exciting events and initiatives! We are proud to work alongside many dedicated community partners. We would like to highlight some of the schools in Oakville that have taken on inspiring projects to increase biodiversity and promote environmental awareness.

Student volunteers and leaders have actively participated in a variety of environmental initiatives, including pollinator garden stewardship, tree planting and maintenance, seedball making, educational talks, nature walks, and interactive games. We are incredibly grateful to the following schools for participating in environmental initiatives that create positive change, Abbey Park High School, Dr. D.R. Williams Public School, École du Chêne, Forest Trail Public School, St. Mildred’s, Appleby College, MacLachlan College, Garth Webb High School, Munn’s Public School, Oakwood Public School, Sheridan College, Sunningdale Public School, and Gladys Speers Public School . In addition to Oakville schools, we also had the pleasure of collaborating with the incredible youth volunteers from Human Nature Projects Ontario , who represented various schools across the GTA and brought enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to our initiative.

Through their involvement in these environmental projects, all participants have contributed to positive change in our local green spaces and overall biodiversity. From engaging in educational talks to participating in garden stewardship, each effort has helped raise environmental awareness and enhance local biodiversity. This increase in biodiversity allows ecosystems to support a greater variety of insects, small mammals, and other wildlife, helping to maintain ecological balance.

Promoting environmental awareness is essential for effectively engaging community members in the importance of protecting local biodiversity. Our Bring Monarchs Back (BMB) initiative has generated significant interest, empowering educators and students to learn more about the value of native biodiversity and the impact of their projects.

What is Bring Monarchs Back Initiative?

The Bring Monarchs Back (BMB) initiative aims to educate and empower the community to build and enhance pollinator pathways in Oakville, increasing local biodiversity and providing habitat for species at risk, such as the monarch butterfly.

We would like to thank our event partners for their support of the Bring Monarchs Back (BMB) initiative: The Town of Oakville, Canadian Wildlife Federation, Oakville Lions Club, TD Friends of the Environment, Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project, and the Invasive Species Centre.

Outreach, Generosity, and Kindness: Meet Margaret Larson

Wed, 21 May 2025 21:00:57 GMT

By Deborah Everest-Hill

Growing Awareness: Students Lead Native Plant Project

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 16:44:05 GMT

Raising Awareness About Local Insects, One Native Seed at a Time

At a time when global insect populations are in rapid decline, a group of three local high school students (St. Thomas Aquinas High school)—Amelia Lansdown, Emma Song, and Cayla Ernst—decided to take action. Inspired by The Insect Crisis, a powerful book that outlines the urgent need to protect insect biodiversity, the trio focused their CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) project and presented their idea to their teachers and school principal.

Their mission? Raise awareness about the critical role of insects in local biodiversity—and give people the tools to help.

Through weeks of planning, research, and creativity, the students built an engaging educational campaign. They designed a display board, created a detailed native seeds and planting booklet, and compiled a list of local plants that support local insect species.

They were faced with limited funding and decided to approach Oakville Public Library and Oakvillegreen for support. We were thrilled to donate native seeds and educational handouts. With this help, they set up an informative booth during Parent_Teacher night at their school. The event gave families the chance to learn about the important role of native plants in supporting local biodiversity, as well as the critical need to create habitats for pollinators, including insects that are often overlooked or misunderstood such as moths, flies and mosquitos.

Parents and teachers left with seeds in hand and a better understanding of the important role that local plants and insects play in our environment. In total, over 300 seed packets and 300 booklets were distributed—each one a step toward more pollinator-friendly yards and a more informed community.

We’re incredibly proud of Amelia, Emma, and Cayla for their leadership and dedication to making a difference. Their project is a shining example of how youth-led environmental action can create ripple effects of change.

Oakvillegreen is honoured to have played a part in supporting their vision, and we can’t wait to see what they grow next.

Spring Is Here!

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:21:53 GMT

Spring Is Here!

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source. Flowers

New paragraph

Oakvillegreen's Milkweed Challenge

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 17:47:10 GMT

Oakvillegreen's Milkweed Challenge

As part of our Bring Monarchs Back Initiative, Oakvillegreen is launching a Milkweed Challenge to help our area’s monarch butterfly populations thrive! By collectively planting more milkweed (our goal is 200 plants ), we can restore pollinator habitats in our local area, support this extraordinary species, and spread awareness about the importance of conservation efforts.

Why Milkweed?

Did you know only about 5% of our native plants provide 75% of caterpillar food?* The monarch butterfly population has declined by more than 80% since the 1990s. Milkweed is the only host plant for Monarch butterflies. From egg to caterpillar, to pupa, the first 3 stages of the monarch life cycle would simply not be possible without this plant. Even later in their life, adult butterflies sip nectar from milkweed flowers to provide sustenance during their late-season migration.

A small patch of milkweed plants can be a lifeline for an entire species! Planting milkweed creates a whole beautiful web of life.

There are three types of Milkweed native to Ontario that are available to source which we encourage you to add to your gardens! For more moist to wet areas, plant Swamp Milkweed which grows beautiful bright pink to mauve flowers. Whereas, Butterfly Milkweed thrives in drier, rockier, or more sandy soils and blooms vibrant orange flowers. Finally, Common Milkweed tolerates a variety of soil conditions and does best in natural areas, showcasing delicate and very fragrant light pink flowers.

Help us reach our goal!

With our Native Plant Sale, we are offering these three species of milkweed and even a ready-to-plant Monarch Garden Kit to transform your garden into a supportive pollinator habitat. This year, we are trying to sell 200 milkweed plants to welcome and support Monarchs all over Oakville.

Be sure to shop our native plant sale online now! Our sale is currently open up until April 30th, 2025 with pick up available on May 10th, 2025. Browse our new shrubs, perennials, species added to kits, and our new Incredible Edibles section.

Support our milkweed challenge and stay up to date with our Bring Monarchs Back Initiative. Together we can grow milkweed for Monarchs and restore habitat for this special at-risk species!

* Dr. Doug Tallamy, a professor in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware

Launching Bring Monarchs Back!

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:51:56 GMT

Launching Bring Monarchs Back!

Oakvillegreen is excited to announce a new initiative - Bring Monarchs Back. The focus of the initiative is to educate and empower the community to continue enhancing existing pollinator pathways and creating habitat for species-at-risk such as the Monarch Butterfly. Oakvillegreen is going to be taking hands-on action this year with the help of our community, to restore Monarch habitat and support this species.

Oakville is a key landing location for endangered Monarch butterflies. As part of their migratory life cycle, Monarch butterflies need habitat for breeding, feeding, and stopover in Southern Ontario. Breeding and feeding habitats can include prairies, meadows, marshes, roadsides and urban patches and pathways. Female monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed and hatched caterpillars feed only on milkweed before pupating. Asters and goldenrods are particularly important, since they provide nectar during the fall migration.

With the help of community volunteers, we will focus our efforts on multiple restoration sites, including a new pollinator garden in North Oakville. Improved biodiversity will facilitate pollinator movement among increasingly connected urban habitats, and will help species to thrive. We are grateful for the support and partnership with the Town of Oakville, Sheridan College, Canadian Wildlife Federation, Oakville's Lion Club, Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project, and local Oakville schools to make this project possible. If you would like to support our initiative and become a Bring Monarchs Back sponsor, please donate here!

“Together, we can collectively improve pollinator health and habitat for species-at-risk such as the Monarch Butterfly.” says Oakvillegreen’s Programs Director Anelia Tichkova. “Monarchs are beautiful and powerful creatures, a symbol of resilience and transformation, so this is why we picked them as an inspiration and a call to action”

Oakvillegreen is offering educational opportunities as part of Bring Monarchs Back. Contact us to book a nature walk, a seedball making workshop, an educational talk, or a hands-on pollinator group stewardship session.

Don't forget to keep an eye on our Events Calendar for upcoming events! As well, our native plant sale storefront is opening in March and you can join our Milkweed Challenge and grow milkweed for Monarchs.

Get to Know Goldenrod!

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 21:56:03 GMT

City of Toronto's Get to Know Goldenrod Guide

A hardy native plant with many different species adapted to a wide range of growing conditions, there’s a goldenrod that’s right for every garden. And when you plant goldenrod in your yard, on your balcony or in a community garden, the birds, butterflies, bees and other pollinators will all benefit.

- Get to Know Goldenrod , City of Toronto

Pollinators In The Winter- What Are They Up To?

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:31:56 GMT

Pollinators In The Winter- What Are They Up To?

Happy holidays! In Oakville, we’ve had a bit of snow and chilly weather over this season but you may be wondering where our pollinator friends go during the winter. Unlike us, they don’t have fireplaces or warm homes to face the cold and must go to greater lengths to survive the season.

Where do they go?

As you may know, many species of birds and butterflies migrate to warmer climates. The remarkable monarch butterfly will travel over 2000 miles! However, other types of butterflies or moths go through diapause instead, a form of butterfly hibernation in which they enter one of their four life stages (egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, or adult form).

Many native bees lay eggs in underground nests or into protected cavities above ground, these eggs hatch and live as developing pupae or dormant adults, staying warm inside their nesting sites. Whereas, the bumble bee species only protect the new queens- they spend the season in holes of soft wood or dry underground consuming as much nectar as possible to build fat reserves.

Other insects will follow similar habits by spending the season living in soil, vegetation, old leaves, under logs, bark, stones, or tunnel underground, inside plant stems or wood.

When do they come back?

Each pollinator will return at different times of the year ranging from early spring to even late summer. For migrating species, their journey back is long, monarch butterflies take up to two months.

Once it is warm enough, female native bees emerge and come back to their nesting site to lay the next generation of eggs. Similarly in the spring, queen bumble bees will emerge and find new nesting sites to start the next colonies. Upon reemerging, they are hungry and want to quickly find food.

How can we support their transition?

These pollinators are incredibly resilient and have adapted their strategies to survive the harshness of the season. However, it is important we support them by providing pollen and nectar sources vital for their transition and the survival of future generations. This means we want to keep our gardens and yards ‘untidy’ over the winter season. We can rake less and leave more piles of leaves or even sprinkle them on our flowerbeds. This will not only provide shelter for the pollinators but also protect plants from extreme weather. As well, try to avoid trimming/cutting back dead plants or disturbing bare soil. Lastly, we can help create their habitats by providing extra logs, stone, or other homes for them to live in!

Sources:

https://pollinatorpartnership.ca/en/blog/where-do-pollinators-go-in-the-winter

https://wildpollinators-pollinisateurssauvages.ca/2018/03/18/where-do-pollinators-go-in-winter/

https://www.calgary.ca/parks/wildlife/pollinators-winter-care.html

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/pollinators-in-winter.htm

Proud to be Included in the OCF GIVEOakville 2024 Campaign!

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 23:35:43 GMT

Proud to be Included in the Oakville Community Foundation GIVEOakville 2024 Campaign! November 15th-December 9th

GIVEOakville is an annual holiday campaign organized by the Oakville Community Foundation. It is an online crowdfunding campaign that fundraises money and awareness for local charities in Oakville that support our community and its residents. This year GIVEOakville is from November 15th-December 9th- 24 days to support 64 charities. The Foundation uses its community granting funds to amplify gifts from donors and their Fundholders. These funds will be allocated on a prorated basis to all organizations who received support prior to GIVEOakville’s closing date of December 9th, 2024. The Foundation covers all credit card fees, ensuring your donations go straight to helping charities in our community.

Learn more about our local environmental work, and consider contributing by clicking on Oakvillegreen’s profile page:

“GIVEOakville works because it’s an opportunity for community members to come together and show their support for the local charities that work so hard to make sure our community thrives”- Wendy Rinella, CEO of the Oakville Community Foundation.

By donating, you are directly supporting our programs and mission to conserve Oakville’s natural environment. OCF highlights the importance of our community legacy; help us improve our biodiversity, combat invasive species, increase our urban tree canopy, and reduce the effects of climate change in our local community. Be a part of our legacy and make a positive impact in Oakville. Together, we can enable local action, education and advocacy to create a greener Oakville.

Don’t forget, GIVEOakville closes on December 9th! You can help us to reach our goal by donating and sharing with your network. We are very grateful to be included and alongside other local charities who are serving vulnerable populations in our community. Check out these other wonderful organizations and give now!

We launched our 25 Days of Giving campaign to raise $2500 for our programming and events. And here’s why we are so proud….

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 23:36:12 GMT

We launched our 25 Days of Giving campaign to raise $2500 for our programming and events. And here’s why we are so proud….

For 25 years, Oakvillegreen’s focus has been on “Protecting nature where you Live”, and 100% of our resources and effort are in Oakville. As an environmental charity, we empower local citizens to get involved directly in Oakville’s natural environment. We believe that tackling climate change can start right here and now.

Oakvillegreen works hand-in-hand with thousands of volunteers and community partners to restore the ecological functions of local lands and waters, creating a more resilient and connected community.

We are proud of our impact: To date Oakvillegreen has engaged over 16,000 volunteers, inspired over 30,000 students, and planted over 40,000 trees – all right here in Oakville.

You CAN make a difference to improving Halton’s environment right where you live. Join us at any of our events to see how.

Oakvillegreen formed in 1999 to fight for the creation of a Natural Heritage System north of Highway 5 to protect 30% of the then privately owned, undeveloped land. Ultimately, Oakvillegreen won the decision to add these private lands to the Natural Heritage System. This decision created a key urban greenspace and preserved keynorth-south and east west connected ecological corridors.

Programming has evolved over the years, to include education programs and planting and restoration programs which get people outside to appreciate, protect and enhance the natural areas where they live.

Although less visible, we are proud of our advocacy work on many issues, like advocating to protect Glen Abbey Golf Course from development, opposing tree removal on Lakeshore Blvd West and the passage of Oakville’s private tree protection bylaw to name a few.

We are delighted to welcome longtime volunteers and encourage those new to our community to jump in and join the fun.

Many equate our accomplishments to a barn -raising, where the action of many, creates a dramatic product and an empowering feeling of satisfaction. We make it easy to get involved and join in.

To celebrate 25 years, we launched a campaign 25 Days of Giving with a goal to raise $2500.

Donate now! Help us to continue our green mission and restore nature.

Celebrating the Oak Tree on National Tree Day

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 15:15:27 GMT

Celebrating the Oak Tree on National Tree Day

“Growing the saplings was one way I felt I could make a positive contribution to climate change and beautify my community where I’ve lived for almost 70 years.”

“During my quarantine in the Covid era, it was the one true thing. I used it as an anchor when all the world appeared to be off kilter.”

Oakvillegreen often receives notes from supporters, but interestingly, last week we heard from 2 tree guardians, who shared personal stories about oaks in their lives.

Oak trees are magnificent in so many ways! Out of the 11 native oak species in Canada, 10 are found in Ontario. Located on a crossroad between the Carolinian Forest and the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Forest region, Oakville has once been a home to many of these proud and mighty oak trees. With the significant growth of urbanization, climate change challenges, and the increasing presence of invasive species, our mature oak trees are a more and more rare sight. Some of these trees still stand tall and proud in Oakville.

Oakville resident Kim shared the story of 5 backyard red oak trees, estimated to be over 150 years old. When Kim moved to Oakville years ago, they were told that the trees were once part of a laneway to a farm. Kim and her family have stewarded the trees throughout the decades.

Kim does have her favourite- the largest of the three remaining oak trees:

“I have created paintings of this oak – tried to capture something of its beauty. During my quarantine in the Covid era, it was the one true thing I used as an anchor when all the world appeared to be off kilter. It had already seen so much. We estimate that it is between 150-200 years old, old enough to be around before Canada was a country.”

Kim wants to protect these trees for the future and is happy to share acorns from her heritage trees, for planting in other Oakville locations. You can reach out to her: @kimberlybellart

Liz, another oak guardian from Oakville, adores oak trees and took action to share her passion with others by growing oak saplings.

“Growing the saplings was one way I felt I could make a positive contribution to climate change and beautify my community where I’ve lived for almost 70 years.” – comments Liz when reaching out to Oakvillegreen’s team – “…it is so encouraging and heartwarming to know of others who care deeply for trees, plants and Mother Earth.”

Liz and her husband built a mini enclosure to germinate and grow the special red oak saplings, to protect them from the squirrels. Several saplings were given to friends and family. Oakvillegreen was honored to receive some saplings, which have been planted locally to contribute to the growth of Oakville’s urban forest.

Recognizing our Youth Stewards of 2024!

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 17:52:13 GMT

Recognizing our Youth Stewards of 2024!

This summer, Oakvillegreen had a remarkable season of environmental stewardship activities, thanks to the unwavering dedication and exceptional efforts of our volunteers. We are delighted to recognize a select group of students as Oakvillegreen Youth Stewards, who participated in multiple events, gained hands-on environmental experience, and developed teamwork and leadership skills. This hardworking group contributed significantly by participating in invasive species removal events and transforming our three pollinator gardens through weekly weeding, mulching, planting, and watering, allowing native species to thrive. They also connected with like-minded peers and made a wonderful impact in their local community.

For their dedication to preserving nature in Oakville, congratulations to:

Mus'ab. A
Sarah. F
Justin. K
Dawn. L
Ethan. L
Khang. N
Izzy. R
Seyrish. S
Avani. S

We are beyond grateful for all your help and passion!

If you are a student interested in becoming a Youth Steward, visit our volunteer page for more information. Although summer has come to an end, we offer other opportunities throughout the school year for students to get involved. Be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar and register for the events you’d like to participate in.

Weathering the Storm: Oakville's Heavy Rainfall and Connection to Climate Change

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 14:38:05 GMT

Weathering the Storm: Oakville's Heavy Rainfall and Connection to Climate Change

Story by Oakvillegreen's Environmental Program Coordinator, Lacey Swamy

Photo Credit: Oakville News, 2024

Torrential downpour. Streets flooding. Parks, sports fields, and golf courses closed. Power outages. Events cancelled. Since the beginning of summer, Oakville has already experienced over 250mm of rain (Hamilton, 2024). That exceeds our average rainfall during this season, and we’re only halfway through July. Such flash flooding and heavy thunderstorms are beyond unusual, so what’s causing this change in nature?

With rising temperatures, there is an increased ability for the air to hold moisture. Regularly, Oakville’s humidity levels during this season fluctuate from 65-78%. However, this summer they have reached over 92% (Weather Atlas). This level of humidity makes intense thunderstorms extremely probable. These storms brew on the divide of warm and cool air, or in Oakville’s case, high humidity, and lakefront breezes. Due to the moisture in the air, thunderstorms come with heavy rainfall. And just when the storm is about to end, when the cool air from the thunderstorm’s downdraft should sink, high-temperature air strikes behind it, causing another storm to form. This repeating pattern is called training thunderstorms and is currently what Oakville is experiencing (The Weather Network, 2024). Canada is expected to warm faster than anywhere else in the world (McBean, 2024) and the ECC has predicted record-high temperatures this summer. This extreme weather is undoubtedly a ramification of climate change, so what are nature-based solutions to mitigate these effects?

Photo Credit: Town of Oakville, 2024

Green infrastructure is an innovative solution for managing stormwater. These systems allow pollutants from rainwater to be filtered and removed by letting them absorb into green infrastructure and slowing down its flow (CVC, 2023). A few examples are permeable pavement, infiltration chambers, green roofs, rainscaping, creek conservation, replacing lawn with more diverse vegetation, and treeplanting projects. These minimic nature’s natural features and in doing so reduce the risk of flooding and create a positive impact on climate change.

Oakvillegreen hopes you are staying safe in this time of extreme weather! If you are signed up for any of our events this summer, make sure to check your email for any cancellations or date changes. Together, we can work on nature-based solutions for preventing these intense storms.

References

Welcome to the jungle, Ontario: On pace for a record, rainy summer? - The Weather Network

July weather - Summer 2024 - Oakville, Canada (weather-atlas.com)

'Training' thunderstorms cause flash floods in Ontario, but what are they? - The Weather Network

Expert insight: Canada is warming faster than anywhere else on earth - Western News (westernu.ca)

Environment and Climate Change Canada presents summer seasonal outlook and introduces new heat wave attribution system - Canada.ca

https://cvc.ca/conversations/leading-the-way-in-stormwater-management/

Schoolyard Pollinator Garden Guide!

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:16:05 GMT

Oakvillegreen's A Guide to Planting a Schoolyard Pollinator Garden

One of the most important things we can do to support threatened pollinators is to plant native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees. When native plant species grow, due to their crucial role as primary producers, the diversity of all other organisms within the ecosystem can also flourish. This guide outlines several steps to planting a schoolyard pollinator garden to ensure the success of the garden and the attraction of pollinators. This includes details of the whole process, tips for maintenance, and recommendations of species to plant.

Climate Hope: Trailblazing PS David Williams is a Leader in Youth Environmental Action

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 21:36:29 GMT

Climate Hope: Trailblazing PS David Williams is a Leader in Youth Environmental Action

Story by Oakvillegreen's Environmental Program Coordinator, Lacey Swamy

Over recent years, the disconnect between nature and children has alarmingly grown. From playing outside every day, exploring forests, and getting their little hands dirty, to being told to stay only on the blacktop, and spending most of their time inside. It is so important to revert this phenomenon not only for their social, physical, and mental health but also for our planet’s health. After all, how can we expect future generations to protect our natural environment if they never learn to appreciate it?

Luckily, local school in Oakville, Dr. David R. Williams Public School is hopeful of reconnecting their students with nature. They have made climate action a priority, and have gotten their entire school community involved- teachers, principals, parent council, and of course, their students. In times like these, it’s important to highlight the great work they are doing as an inspiration to us all.

They have focused on promoting biodiversity and altering their school practices to be more sustainable. A team of grade 8 students presented to their parent council and received funding for many green initiatives. In the front of their school, they added 8 pollinator gardens, planted by members of the junior and senior eco-teams. As well, grades 5-8 were engaged in a tree planting day, where they added 80 trees to our urban forest canopy in Preserve Woods. Hundreds of students also participated in a tree care mulching day, learning how to protect their schoolyard trees and spreading woodchips to over 40 trees. Then, in terms of individual habits, their school completed a garbage audit with the town of Oakville, to reduce their overall waste and to determine what is not being disposed of properly. Lastly, each class engages in Walk or Wheel Wednesday, where they encourage alternate modes of transportation for points to win various prizes.

All of this progress isn’t possible without the amazing teachers and staff who work hard to support their students’ climate dreams. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes, and teachers are most definitely inspirations to their kids. To name a few- thank you to the eco-teachers, Meaghan Bisson, Samar Diab, and Linda Schofield, for their hard work and dedication, to Principal Janet Ricciardelli, for her support and motivation towards green efforts, to head caretaker, Adam Bearman, for his care and helpfulness, and to the parent council, for their encouragement and guidance along the way.

PS David Williams is an exceptional example of how youth can become educated, get involved, and make a difference in their community. Their students are future leaders, and their words are climate hope for us all.

“The environment is very important and plays a huge role in our future and it’s important to raise awareness as a lot of people take it for granted.” - Grade 8 Student.

“I want to save the environment. I love nature and being outside” - Grade 5 Student.

“Our planet is going through a crisis, we are all citizens so we have to do our part and help restore it”- Grade 7 Student.

List of Native Plants

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:44:41 GMT

Created by Credit Valley Conservation

Building Resilience Through Community Partnerships

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 17:23:06 GMT

How Oakville Charitable Organizations Work Hand-in-hand to Increase Biodiversity and Promote Environmental Stewardship

Oakvillegreen Conservation Association and Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre (JCHAC) have joined efforts as a call to action for driving sustainable conservation solutions for greener and healthier communities. The two organizations have collaborated since 2017 and have had a common mission to restore and preserve nature locally, and to inspire others to be part of a committed and caring community!

Oakvillegreen and JCHAC partnered on a number of initiatives as part of Green Connections for Adults 55+ in the past 2 years. They organized tree planting events and nature art workshops together, providing interesting and engaging opportunities for senior members of the community.

In 2023, Oakvillegreen delivered its Ready for Rain DIY rain garden program, with workshops being held at the gallery and a demonstration garden built on the beautiful grounds of JCHAC. The garden reduces runoff, filters out pollutants in runoff and provides food and shelter for butterflies, bees, birds and other wildlife.

Conservation Day was held in June 2023, with other environmental groups and vendors and offered attendees a number of interactive sessions, outdoor nature walks and kids hands-on activities. It engaged the community in eco-learning and action. This multi-organization initiative was designed to promote conservation and preservation of our greenspaces in the Halton Region.

Oakvillegreen and JCHAC were also thrilled to work on another very exciting project last year – the creation of the first mini forest in Oakville . A mini forest — also known as a micro forest or tiny forest — is a community of native trees and shrubs planted tightly together in an urban or suburban site based on the Miyawaki method. The method emphasizes the use of dense plantings, diverse locally-native species collections, soil preparation, and multilayered design to mimic the complexity of a native forest.

These events and initiatives welcomed community volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. The projects brought the community together with many eager to learn and contribute towards restoring local forests and reviving biodiversity.

“When it comes to preserving nature around us, every single little bit counts," says Oakvillegreen’s Programs Manager Anelia Tichkova. “When the community works together, we have the power and knowledge to make a positive difference, and to cultivate compassion for the environment that ultimately leads to conservation. This partnership is proof of that!”

“The joint efforts of Oakvillegreen and Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre, have provided us an opportunity to spread the message about the conservation of nature” adds Matthew Lawson, JCHAC’s Executive Director. “This collaboration to protect and sustainably manage our resources in the Halton Region is at the core of our partnership. With the support, dedication, and generosity of Oakvillgreen, Joshua Creek has, and continues to protect the greenspaces needed for this and future generations.”

Contact Oakvillegreen at programs@oakvillegreen.org to find out how to get involved this coming spring!

A Year in Green

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 21:16:32 GMT

2023: A Recap

The end of 2023 is approaching fast and with it comes a time for reflection and gratitude! We would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and support that our volunteers, program participants and partners have contributed this year. This year has been significant for us, as we broke a number of major milestones.

Our 2023 tree planting season was highly successful! In collaboration with many community and corporate groups, we managed to plant 1740 native trees and shrubs across multiple locations including Beechnut Woods, Buttonbush Woods Park, and Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre. We led a total of 9 tree planting events, training and engaging hundreds of volunteers. For a full list of our partners and supporters, take a look here . It is wonderful to see all the support of these green initiatives in our community.

As part of our tree planting and stewardship initiatives, we created the first ever mini forest in Oakville! A mini forest is a community of native trees and shrubs planted tightly together based on the Miyawaki method. Miyawaki forests are believed to grow 10 x faster, 30 x denser and contain significantly more biodiversity. Since they are quick to establish and can be created on tiny urban sites, they are critical solutions for cities to rapidly build climate resilience. For this project, volunteers prepared the site and planted 340 trees and shrubs (including 26 different native species)! We are excited to maintain and track the growth of this mini forest over the next few years. If you are interested in learning more about this project, you can click here to read all about it!

This year, we partnered with the Invasive Species Centre to tackle some of the troublesome species found in Oakville such as garlic mustard ( Alliaria petiolata) and common buckthorn ( Rhamnus cathartica) . After providing over 130 volunteers with education and training, we managed to remove piles of these invasives from our streets, parks, and forests! If you walk through McCraney Creek, Shell Park, or Kingsford gardens, you might see a lot more space for native plants to bloom over the next few seasons.

We also helped create 2 new “learning” rain gardens in our community featuring over 200 native Carolinian shrubs and perennials. To support rain garden maintenance and installation, we led both in-person and online workshops that were modelled after Green Communities Canada’s DYI Raingarden workshop series. As part of the process, we received expert advice from Avesi Stormwater & Landscape Solutions. Overall, the initiative resulted in 10 rain gardens completed or initiated by the participants in our courses! These rain gardens highlight the potential for stormwater management on private property. After all, who wouldn’t want beautiful native plants that also catch runoff water?

Our pollinator gardens are thriving thanks to the helping hands of our summer volunteers. Over 300 native wildflowers and grasses were added this year. Pollinator habitats and biodiversity were increased through our native plant sale in home gardens with 850 native perennials and 160 native trees and shrubs sold.

Inspiring younger generations is a big goal for Oakvillegreen, and this year was no exception. We worked closely with schools and community groups to deliver our GreenRoots and Pollinator Heroes programs. We reached over 500 students in Oakville by leading nature walks, native wildflower seedball making activities, and helping with Eco Clubs across the board! Through these activities, students learned about the importance of biodiversity - from smaller ecosystems like their gardens or schoolyards all the way up to globally interconnected biomes. They also took action to build and maintain pollinator gardens.

We continue to run Oakvillegreen’s Green Connections for Adults 55+ program with the aim to reduce social isolation and build community togetherness among older residents in Oakville. However, we haven’t just been busy working in the pollinator gardens, planting trees, and going on nature walks! We’ve also organised bus tours, led nature-based workshops, facilitated nature knowledge-exchange meetings, and held forest bathing sessions. We encourage all who are interested to join us for more fun, nature-based activities in the new year.

We loved being out in the community sharing our knowledge and passion for protecting and enhancing local green spaces. You may have seen or will see us at outreach events such as school fairs, Oakville Public Library events or local residents’ association annual picnic! In June we teamed up with Joshua Creek heritage Art Centre to celebrate Pollinator Week and engage the community in eco-learning and action. This multi-organization initiative was designed to promote conservation of our greenspaces in the Halton Region. The event celebrated the environmental work being done locally and was a call to action for driving sustainable conservation solutions for greener and healthier communities.

Overall, it has been a fantastic year for Oakvillegreen. We are very proud and thankful to our funders, partners, supporters, and volunteers. We can't wait to see you in 2024!

Stay Informed with the Latest Buzz

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 01:29:45 GMT

Climate change and its impact on pollinators

When we hear the word 'pollinator' the first image that often comes to mind is that of the humble bumble bee.

However, did you know that there are over 800 bee species in Canada, and at least 350 of them are found in Southern Ontario. Someone who knows this very well is Sheila Colla, a trained ecologist and assistant professor at York University, who has focused her research on the conservation of these lesser know bee species.

As well as collaborating with the likes of Lorraine Johnson to produce the wonderful A Garden for the Rusty-Patched Bumblebee: Creating Habitat for Native Pollinators, she has also written many interesting reports based on findings from research carried out at her research lab https://www.savethebumblebees.ca/ .

Click on the buttons below to read about what Sheila has to say in relation to climate change and its impact on pollinators.

DIY Rain Garden Workshop Series

maryann@oakvillegreen.org (Mary-Ann Bell) — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 16:51:22 GMT

Come join the rain garden revolution!

Oakvillegreen has been set the challenge of creating TEN rain gardens by September 2023. This is a big job, so we are going to need the help of our wonderful community.

At Oakvillegreen we believe in empowering the community and educating its members to better protect and preserve our natural spaces, and for that reason we have decided to launch the DIY RAIN GARDEN WORKSHOP SERIES .

This workshop series consists of online sessions and hands-on demonstrations. You will learn the theory from the comfort of your own home, and put it into practise as you build a demo rain garden at the beautiful Joshua Creek

Heritage Art Centre .

This course will take you through the whole process of installing a rain garden, step by step, so that by the end of the course you feel confident enough to build your own. Your garden will then serve to educate neighbors, friends, and

relatives on the benefits of a rain garden, and you will be equipped with the knowledge to guide them in installing one themselves.

To register for this course click HERE

To find out more about the course email maryann@oakvillegreen.org

European Buckthorn: Identification, Threats, and Removal

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 21:11:34 GMT

Video: Invasive European Buckthorn information

Oakvillegreen is happy to publish this information video on invasive buckthorn. This short piece will focus on identification, threats posed by the plants, and removal based on the size of the plant and the tools available.

Thanks to the Invasive Species Centre for their financial support of this project, and Nicholas Wandel for his production work!

Invasive Fact Sheet: Dog-strangling Vine

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 19:58:25 GMT

Dog-strangling Vine: Identification, Threats & Removal

Looking to learn more about Dog-strangling Vine? Download our fact sheet here to help protect Oakville from invasive species!

Invasive Fact Sheet: Garlic Mustard

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 19:52:15 GMT

Garlic Mustard: Identification, Threats & Removal

Looking to learn more about Garlic Mustard? Download our fact sheet here to help protect Oakville from invasive species!

Invasive Fact Sheet: Amur Honeysuckle

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:45:41 GMT

Amur Honeysuckle: Identification, Threats and Removal

Looking to learn more abut invasive Honeysuckle? Download our fact sheet here to help protect Oakville from invasive species!

Invasive Fact Sheet: European Buckthorn

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 18:29:41 GMT

European Buckthorn: Identification, Threats & Removal

Looking to learn more about Buckthorn? Download our fact sheet here to help protect Oakville from invasive species!

Saying goodbye to Beatriz

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 14:11:50 GMT

Beatriz has worn many hats over the years! She began as our Environmental Education Specialist and was an inspiration to teachers and students of all ages with her knowledge and enthusiasm. She led and championed our Youth Stewards program and was instrumental in rolling out our well-known demonstration pollinator gardens, tree plantings, invasive species removal events. Beatriz has led several new community initiatives at Oakvillegreen such as Depave Paradise and Ready for Rain garden stormwater management installations.

Beatriz’s positivity, expertise and drive will be missed. She has been a pillar of our organization for the last 8 years. Please join us in wishing Beatriz a happy and exciting new chapter! We will miss you!!

We are delighted that our summer intern, Ben Laing, will be staying on and will be stepping into Beatriz’s big shoes! Ben has his Bachelor of Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo and is now completing his Masters of Environment, Environmental Assessment, with Concordia University.

For community partnerships, stewardship and treeplanting activities, corporate greening and teambuilding opportunities, please contact Ben Laing at ben@oakvillegreen.org

For the GreenRoots environmental education programming and the Green Connections for Adult 55+ programming, please contact Anelia Tichkova at anelia.tichkova@oakvillegreen.org

Oakvillegreen President receives Queen's Platinum Jubilee Award

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 17:35:20 GMT

Driven by her passion for the environment, Karen has been personally responsible for many greenspace restoration projects in our parks and schoolyards. Her enthusiasm and hands-on approach have created a ripple effect, moving thousands of volunteers to become engaged alongside her, in Oakvillegreen’s conservation and stewardship work. Under Karen’s leadership, Oakvillegreen has engaged over 29,800 students in school presentations and stewardship projects, added 10,000 square feet of pollinator gardens and planted 35,000 native trees throughout the Town of Oakville.

Karen was a key member in creating Halton’s first schoolyard naturalization project at Sunningdale Public School in 1997. The award-winning project (Dreamacres) continues today, along with its stewardship by the school community. The project’s challenges and successes jump-started Karen’s interest in creating healthy natural spaces for students throughout Oakville.

In addition to her long-running volunteer service with Oakvillegreen, Karen has dedicated her time and energy to supporting many other organizations, including Stop Sprawl Halton and CORE Burlington.

Karen previously received an Ontario Heritage Trust Award in 2012 for her efforts in preserving the Province’s Natural Heritage and the Government of Canada’s Sesquicentennial Award in 2017 for her volunteer work protecting and enhancing Oakville’s environment.

If you require any further information about Karen’s contributions to the Town of Oakville or Oakvilllegreen, please feel free to contact Tory Kenny at tory.Kenny@oakvillegreen.org or visit our website at www. oakvillegreen.org .

Green Connections for Adults 55+ has been renewed

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 18:52:10 GMT

Green Connections for Adults 55+ is an inspiring and engaging program building community togetherness.

Green Connections for adults 55+ was launched in the Spring of 2021 thanks to the support of Halton Region Community Investment Fund and the New Horizons for Seniors Program.

The program is aimed to reduce social isolation among older residents in Oakville through a variety of fun, nature-themed events and activities. We wanted to establish a forum for some of the most vulnerable members of our community – for sharing green ideas, learning new skills, and taking action in the community, says Anelia Tichkova, the Manager for Community and School Engagement with Oakvillegreen. We have been providing opportunities for participants to experience the restorative benefits of nature and learn from local experts – horticulturalists, artists, conservationists, and nature-lovers. It has been incredible to see members of the community making new social connections, co-leading events, and joining our team of dedicated volunteers.

The organization has adapted to meet the challenges of the Pandemic by offering a hybrid model of both virtual and in-person programming, including nature-themed workshops, monthly virtual meets, nature walks and forest bathing sessions, tree and perennial plantings, and pollinator garden maintenance.

"I appreciated and enjoyed the 55+ program. It was something to look forward to during the dark days of COVID. The programs were varied and interesting. They gave us things to enjoy, things to uplift, things to share and things to inspire us with the wish to do more, to be more and to help others more. Thank you so much for being there for us.”

- Margaret Larson, Oakville

Through the Green Connections program, we have been able to reach out to many new residents and groups and to build new partnerships with municipal, regional, senior residences, and not-for-profit organizations. It has been wonderful to see many people connecting with Nature in one way or another, feeling hopeful, enthusiastic, and being inspired to take the next step. We, at Oakvillegreen believe that restoring human connections to the natural world nurtures love and care, and leads to conservation and stewardship. These connections make us stronger and happier as a community!

Due to the great success of our first year, we are pleased to be continuing our programs into 2023.

We welcome and support the participation of underrepresented groups and individuals of varying backgrounds and abilities in the Green Connections program. Check our Events Page for dates and details.

If you have any questions about the program, please email Tory Kenny at tory.kenny@oakvillegreen.org or call us at 289-813-1568.

Thank you to our funders, program participants, volunteers, supporters, and community partners!

Stop Sprawl in Halton Region

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 17:43:08 GMT

Stop Sprawl Halton is a group of concerned citizens, who, like you, want to see our communities grow more sustainably, retain the individual character of each town and protect valuable farmland for future food security. This proposal will result in an increase in our taxes, an increased dependence on cars, and lead to a disastrous impact on our environment.

Update June 2022:

Halton Regional Council will meet to consider the adoption of ROPA No. 49 - it includes the provision we fought so hard for - firm urban boundaries to 2041. There’s now an additional inclusion to create a “northern sliver” of more employment lands outside Milton. We say no way!

1. Please email your Regional Councillors . Tell them the deal you want is no urban boundary expansion.

2. Watch the Council meeting on June 15th at 9:30 a.m. Let’s show Council that we are vigilant!

3. Keep your lawn sign up! We’re not done yet. The Ford government has threatened to take plans they don’t like to the Ontario Land Tribunal , and that could include Halton's.

Tick Prevention

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 17:12:36 GMT

Preventing tick bites and staying safe outdoors

Get to know what you're looking for
Blacklegged ticks are small and can be hard to see. They can range in size depending on how long they have been feeding. (1)
Blacklegged ticks are spreading to new areas of the province because of climate change. It is possible to find an infected tick almost anywhere in Ontario. (1)
Wear appropriate clothing
Opt for light-coloured clothing, so it’s easier to see ticks. (1)
Wear closed-toe shoes, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly woven fabric (denim, cotton, nylon, etc.); tuck your shirt into your pants and your pant legs into your socks. (2)
Check yourself
After being outdoors, check for ticks on yourself, your children, and pets. Look: behind your knees, on your head/hairline, in your belly button, in your groin area, in your underarm area, and on the back of your body (use a mirror, or ask someone to check for you). (1)
Shower or bathe as soon as possible/within two hours to wash away loose ticks. (2)
Wash clothing and supplies
Kill any ticks that might be on your clothing by drying clothes on high heat for at least 10 minutes before washing them. (1)
Maintain a tick-proof property
You can help keep blacklegged ticks away from your property by keeping high-traffic area grass mowed short, opting for drought-tolerant plants, avoiding irrigation, and trimming bushes to let in sunlight (ticks avoid hot, dry locations). If you're next to a wooded area or tall grasses, create a border of gravel or woodchips one metre or wider around your yard. (1)
Focus on limiting the suitable environment for ticks to inhabit on your property and limiting incursions by their host carriers (deer, rodents, racoon, birds). Ticks are always at risk of desiccation (drying out), so the easiest means of keeping them away is limiting/removing moist, cool areas on the property.
Learn how to remove a tick
Use fine-tip tweezers to grasp the tick’s head and mouth parts as close to your skin as possible. Slowly pull straight out until the tick is removed. Be careful not to twist or crush the tick during removal. (If this occurs, the risk of infection is not increased. Keeping the tick intact will help in the identification of the tick.) After removing the tick, use soap and water to wash the area of the bite. (2)

Sources

(1) Lyme Disease by the Government of Ontario

(2) How can I prevent tick bites? by Halton Region

(3) Tick Fact Sheet

(4) eTick- Tick Identification

To Stake or not to Stake

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 14:10:19 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

To Stake or not to Stake?

It is almost planting season! Adding native trees and shrubs to your property has many benefits and we often enjoy doing this on our own. There are situations when a newly planted tree may need some support but in others, staking can do more harm than good.

Here are a few things you should know before you make the decision:

The natural movement and swaying of a tree trunk actually help to strengthen and stimulate the development of its roots. The “sway” of the trunk creates more room in the earth for the root system to spread and work their way deeper into the soil. Letting a tree grow without a stake also forces it to become a hardier sapling since it does not have a post to rely on for constant support.
Staking a tree is beneficial when the trunk needs protection and/or support from environmental factors such as wind or storms. Utilizing a tree stake can be most advantageous for trees with undeveloped root balls or heavy branches. The stake can help anchor the roots and allow them time to get established.
When staking a tree, it may grow straighter and taller but it may have a weaker trunk and root system if the support is kept for too long.
The tree size and species, location and environmental conditions – all of these should be determining factors. When staking may be needed : bare root trees, top-heavy trees, tall trees with small root balls, very windy sites and open fields, sandy soils.
If you notice a newly planted tree leaning, you may consider staking in order for the tree to grow up straight.

If you decide you need to stake your tree:

A tree should only be staked for a short period of time , a general rule of thumb is one growing season only (in some circumstances up to 2 years)
Improper staking can cause girdling or tree-trunk abrasion so consider the following :
Stakes should be placed in a way that they are not higher than 2/3 the height of the tree
In order to decide where to tie the stakes to the tree: Hold the tree in one hand and rock it gently back and forth. Move your hand up and down until you find the height at which the tree stays upright when moved. This is where you should put the tree straps for staking. It’ll be about 1/2 to 2/3 of the way up the trunk.
Materials used to tie the tree to the stake should be soft and flexible and allow for movement all the way down to the ground.
Monitoring your tree and adjusting ties when needed is important to ensure healthy growth
Once a tree trunk reaches a diameter of three inches, or after one growing season, all stakes and ties should be removed.

How to support Oakville’s pollinators!

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:35:51 GMT

How to support Oakville’s pollinators!

Replace part of your lawn with your own pollinator garden, or add container pollinator gardens to your deck or balcony
Look out for Oakvillegreen’s Native Plant Sale in March! We offer ready-made pollinator kits for your garden, native trees, shrubs and more.
Choose native plants that are adapted to our local climate and soils. As an added bonus they’ll require less water and care!
Incorporate caterpillar host plants such as Milkweed, New Jersey Tea and other nectar sources in your garden.
Plant a wide variety of species to ensure that there are plants in bloom throughout the season.
Ditch the chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers as they are very harmful to all insects.
Don’t tidy up too much – many pollinators overwinter in leaf litter, plant stems and broken branches.

Why Native Plants?

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:34:02 GMT

Why Native Plants?

Native plants are those that have evolved in a certain area over thousands of years, forming symbiotic relationships with surrounding flora and fauna. They are genetically adapted to local growing conditions.

Plants that are native to our Oakville region have evolved with our native pollinators so they are best at supporting them. The native plants in your pollinator habitat will provide the nectar, pollen, larval food and shelter that these pollinators need to survive.

Native plants are also easy to care for, require less watering, and they look beautiful! And don’t forget that bees visit TREES too! Native flowering trees, such as maples, willows, cherries, basswood, and serviceberry are all excellent sources of nectar for bees and serve as host plants for many butterfly caterpillars.

Exploring Oakville’s Pollinator Gardens

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:12:25 GMT

Exploring Oakville’s Pollinator Gardens

How does pollination occur? Watch our Pollinator Quest video to find out!

What is a Pollinator?

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:03:22 GMT

What is a Pollinator?

A pollinator is an animal that helps transfer pollen between plants. This allows fertilization, which is essential for fruit and seed production. About one-third of our food depends on pollinators. Some types of pollinators include bees, butterflies, flies, beetles, and hummingbirds. Pollinator populations are declining globally due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and urban development.

Pollinators Need Our Help!

One of the most important things we can do to support threatened pollinators is to create pollinator habitat, by planting a variety of native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees.

Small scale pollinator gardens, such as those found in backyards, schools, churches and businesses, can play an important role for pollinators in urban settings. If you plant it, they will come! Your pollinator garden will quickly become home to a variety of pollinators like hummingbirds, butterflies, moths, beetles, and bees.

You’ll also be helping pollinators to find the plants that are just right for them! Many native plants and pollinators have co-evolved. For example, milkweed is the only plant that Monarch caterpillars eat, so if we want to nurture Monarchs, we must plant native milkweeds.

How to Plant Trees

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 12:53:48 GMT

We recommend compost or fine mulch on the surface around the tree or shrub after planting, to help plants get a good start by preventing drying and keeping out unwanted plants (weeds). Be sure to watch our how-to video on planting young trees below.

Celebrating OTF’s Support for Community Greening Programs

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 16:36:22 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE

Oakvillegreen Celebrates OTF’s Support for

Community Greening Programs

On Friday, March 18, Oakvillegreen Conservation Association hosted a virtual event to celebrate the $100,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation in 2021. This support helped Oakvillegreen rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19 by creating a safe and efficient volunteer management process and developing virtual school programming. The event included remarks from Oakvillegreen staff and Oakville North-Burlington MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos.

“I am so pleased that the Ontario Trillium Foundation is supporting Oakvillegreen and its adaptation to virtual programming. This is great news for the environment and greenspaces in Oakville,” said Effie Triantafilopoulos, MPP for Oakville North-Burlington. “This funding will help Oakvillegreen continue to engage our community in important environmental action.”

Through the Resilient Communities Fund grant, Oakvillegreen invested in a new database to support volunteer recruitment and fundraising and made significant website upgrades to enable access to virtual programming. The grant from OTF also allowed Oakvillegreen to adapt its in-person school programming to a virtual model, to keep students connected to nature during a time when access to in-person programming has been limited.

“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be understated,” said Karen Brock, President of Oakvillegreen. “This grant has allowed us to continue to deliver on our mission to protect nature where we live, by adapting to safely engage the public and meet demand for our programs. This investment will have a long-term impact on Oakvillegreen and will continue to serve the community beyond the pandemic”.

Oakvillegreen Conservation Association (Oakvillegreen) is a non-partisan environmental charity, founded in 2000. Its vision is to make Oakville a living city with enhanced natural diversity, stronger connections between natural areas and healthier green spaces. Oakvillegreen works hand-in-hand with thousands of local volunteers to restore the ecological functions of Oakville’s lands and waters, creating a more resilient and connected community. Through direct engagement, and the promotion of nature-based climate solutions, Oakvillegreen is working to create a greener Oakville. For more information, please visit oakvillegreen.org .

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. Last year, nearly $112M was invested into 1,384 community projects and partnerships to build healthy and vibrant communities and strengthen the impact of Ontario’s non-profit sector. In 2020/21, OTF supported Ontario’s economic recovery by helping non-profit organizations rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

Media Contact:

Karen Brock, President

Oakvillegreen Conservation Association

president@oakvillegreen.org

GreenRoots – Inspiring the Next Generation of Nature Stewards

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 21:53:06 GMT

Inspiring and engaging students in environmental stewardship has always been one of our top priorities. Having worked with Oakville schools for many years, we see the need for a program that would support curriculum but also provide an opportunity for students to experience urban ecology right at their school and community, and to realize they can all make a difference.” For the past two years, we worked hard to meet the new challenges of the Pandemic and continue to deliver quality environmental programming to Oakville schools and community groups.

GreenRoots school program offers fun, nature-based activities modified according to students’ grade level and interests, and allowing a student-driven action component, The program empowers educators, parents and community leaders to teach environmental literacy using Oakvillegreen’s suite of connected in-class and outdoor learning activities, providing a wonderful opportunity for schools to establish or strengthen their partnerships with community organizations such as Oakvillegreen.

GreenRoots introduces three key topics offered by grade level: Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Biomimicry, and includes:

Downloadable Toolkits with lesson plans and eco-activities, tied to the Ontario curriculum for JK - Grade 12
Interactive classroom presentations led by Oakvillegreen staff (virtual)
Outdoor discovery activities led by Oakvillegreen staff - nature walks, urban forest discovery and stewardship

The action-oriented approach of the program includes a number of outdoor stewardship activities and aims to ignite that green spark among students, creating life-long nature stewards.

The program is possible thanks to the support of Ontario Trillium Foundation and TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.

How to deal with Spongy Moth around your property

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 13:27:27 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

How to deal with Spongy Moth around your property

A new common name for Lymantria dispar, spongy moth, replaced the prior name of this insect, gypsy moth, in 2022. The Spongy moth is an invasive pest, native to Europe, that was introduced to North America accidentally in 1869 and has expanded its range over Eastern United States and Canada. It is now well established throughout southern Ontario and as far north as Sault Ste. Marie.

The spongy moth larvae or caterpillars will feed on a variety of deciduous tree leaves as soon as leaves appear in the spring. If the larvae population is high, they can defoliate whole trees and forests in a short amount of time. Repeated spongy moth outbreaks and defoliation of trees cause significant stress to trees, especially to oaks that are the most susceptible but highly valuable trees for sustaining healthy ecosystems.

During the summer, the female moth lays eggs in masses of 100 to 1000 on tree bark, crevices, houses, fences, rocks, etc. The eggs are covered with fine light brown hairs. The egg masses will remain all winter and caterpillars will hatch in the spring, from late April to mid-May.

What you can do to protect trees on your property or neighbourhood?

Homeowners are encouraged to monitor their hardwood trees like oak, birch, maple, beech, crabapple, basswood, willow and many other types of trees for the presence of larvae, or egg masses.
Between the months of August and April, physically remove spongy moth egg masses. Use a putty knife or any other scrapping tool to gently remove the eggs into a container and destroy the eggs by leaving them in soapy water for several days.
In the spring, wrap burlap bands at chest height, around trees. The caterpillars will crawl to seek shelter during the day. Use gloves to hand-pick caterpillars and crush or destroy by soaking in soapy water for 48 hours.
Contact a professional tree care service provider if you believe manual removal is not sufficient.

Making Native Seedballs

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 14:39:46 GMT

Making Native Seedballs

Making seedballs with native plant seeds is fun, easy and a great way to support biodiversity.

Ingredients:

Modeling clay
Soil
Native seeds

Watch our instructional video below.

Common Winter Issues for Trees

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 16:40:38 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

Common Winter Issues for Trees

There are a number of common tree problems that occur in the winter so tree care is essential to ensure trees stay healthy.

Frost Heaving - Frost heaving occurs when soil freezing and thawing happens repeatedly. As a result, the soil moves and pushes sometimes tree roots above the ground which can leave roots exposed and weakened. A layer of mulch in the fall around the tree can serve as an insulator and can protect roots from exposure and damage.

Winter Drought - This condition is actually very common and it happens when trees lose more water than they can absorb from the frozen ground. Evergreen trees are especially susceptible to drying out as they lose water through their needles in the dry winter air. As a prevention, water your trees thoroughly in the fall, and apply a layer of mulch around the stem to help out with moisture retention.

Sunscald - Similar to sunburn but for trees, this condition is caused when the tree bark is heated up by the sun on a cold day but then there is a sudden change of temperature once the sunshine is gone. The tree is not able to regulate itself and the inner cells activated initially by the heat are damaged, resulting in deep cracks in the tree bark.

Delicate trees should be wrapped up for the winter, especially trees with south or southwest exposure.

Salt Damage - The salt used on roads and sidewalks during the winter can leak into the soils and can cause severe decline in the trees’ health. It can also harm the branches of evergreens directly and burn the foliage.

Try to aim for more eco-friendly de-icing alternatives to salt. If you end up using salt, always shovel well first and then use a small amount.

Animal Damage - Food and resources are scarce for animals during the winter and some of these animals, including rabbits, deer, rats, and mice sometimes target the bark of trees.

Prevention includes some sort of protection, especially for young trees, such as metal mesh or any other type of a tree guard wrapped around the stem.

Snow and Ice Breakage - Snow, ice or wind can pose a high risk for trees and sometimes make it unbearable for tree branches to resist the pressure. Regular “crown cleaning” pruning technique is recommended which involves selective removal of dead, diseased, broken, or weakly attached branches from a tree crown. Trees are resilient and if we choose to plant native trees that are suited to local climate, they have a higher chance to withstand winter conditions. With the changing climate in recent years, it is also a good idea to consider species with a broad range of environmental adaptability so they can persist in altered conditions in the coming decades.

A message from our Board: Thank you, Melanie!

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:22:14 GMT

Our Board is developing a leadership transition strategy and plan for recruitment. Melanie’s last day will be February 4th, 2022. She will remain involved with Oakvillegreen in an advisory capacity, to support the organization’s continued fundraising success.

Going forward, our stewardship and treeplanting projects, pollinator projects and educational activities will continue:

Karen Brock will continue to lead the organization and can be reached at president@oakvillegreen.org . Karen will continue to lead advocacy programming, planning and strategic direction for Oakvillegreen.
For community partnerships, stewardship and treeplanting activities, corporate greening and teambuilding opportunities, please contact Beatriz Gomez at beatriz.gomez@oakvillegreen.org .
For the GreenRoots environmental education programming and the Green Connections for Adult 55+ programming, please contact Anelia Tichkova at anelia.tichkova@oakvillegreen.org .

As we look ahead to 2022, we are well-positioned to advance our mission, with a strong governance team, a unified staff and a community of dedicated donors and volunteers. We look forward to sharing more details of our transition plans as they develop.

How to Deal with Exposed Tree Roots

Sat, 15 Jan 2022 16:42:49 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

How to Deal with Exposed Tree Roots

Today we’re diving into the underground world of roots - not often considered, but a very important part of urban tree health.

Tree roots have four primary functions: anchorage, storage, absorption, and conduction.

Roots grow where water, oxygen, and space are available. We often envision tree roots as deep underground systems. But did you know, the majority of a tree’s absorbing roots are in the top 30cm of soil? Sometimes over 90% of all roots are in the upper 60cm of soil. This shallow area can be easily damaged, exposed or disturbed.

The section where the r oots join the main stem is known as the root crown. From the root crown, the lateral roots spread out and may extend for distances sometimes two to three times the radius of the crown, depending on the tree species, environmental and soil conditions. Some trees form sinker roots which grow vertically downward off the lateral roots, providing anchorage for the tree. Most trees do not have tap roots after their seedling stage, often obstructed by the expansion of roots horizontally or by unfavourable soil conditions deep into the soil.

What causes roots to be exposed above ground, often known as ‘surface roots”?

Some tree species are predisposed to have shallow roots, including Norway, Silver and Red Maples, Tulip Trees, Colorado Blue Spruce, Willows and Ash Trees, Aspens, Birch, Poplar and Beech trees. However, any tree can develop surface roots with age and in certain conditions. Here are some factors that may be the culprit:

Poor soil conditions: surface roots are common in clay-based or compacted urban soils. When the roots in the top layers of soil get large enough, they break through the surface. Gradually, roots are exposed further by rain and wind.
Improper planting practices: planting trees is often said to be an art combined with science. The way a tree is planted has a lot to do with its future growth, health and life expectancy. If planted too shallow, or above grade, the roots that normally grow horizontally have nowhere to go. They either stop at the edge of the planting hole or they grow above the surface leaving them exposed and without much moisture and nutrients. Planting too deep would cause decline in tree health and growth as well.
Physical obstructions: as the tree grows, the roots grow as well. When there is an obstruction, or not enough space, the roots start struggling to find their way and sometimes they pop up above the surface, especially in clay soils where exploiting depth of soil is not an option.
Sloped terrains and soil erosion: sloped terrains are prone to erosion so special attention should be paid to tree species section when planting in such terrains

What to do and not to do if you have a tree with exposed roots already?

The exposed roots of a newly planted tree can freeze and die over the winter, or dry out in the hot summer months. Mature trees have a better chance of surviving while they have a better-established root system able to maintain the vital root functions for the tree.

To protect exposed roots, the best strategy is to apply a mixture of equal parts of topsoil and compost, adding a 5cm-layer of the mixture around the base of the tree to cover the exposed roots. If the roots are still visible within a year, add another 5 centimeters of the mixture. There is a risk of suffocating the tree if you add more than 5-6cm of soil and raise the grade level of the existing tree.
Alternatively, you can add 8-10cm of mulch instead of the topsoil/compost mixture. Be careful not to pile mulch against the trunk of the tree. Create a hollow ‘donut’ shape around the perimeter of the tree so that the mulch covers the root area.
Don’t cut surface roots! Cutting any roots can compromise the tree stability, destroy the tiny absorbing roots and provide a point of entry to diseases and harmful insects.
Do not plant any other perennials or groundcovers around the tree as they will compete for nutrients and weaken the tree.

Overall, avoid planting trees with a shallow root system, especially in clay soils, and be mindful of the mature size of the tree you are planting so you can allow sufficient space for the tree to grow. A healthy tree root system is critical to tree health! It is often up to us to maintain the right environment around a tree which promotes healthy tree growth and extends the life-span of our precious urban trees.

When is the best time to prune?

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 16:44:25 GMT

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

When is the best time to prune?

Leave pruning for late winter! The best time of the year to prune most trees is when trees are completely dormant. If pruning too early in the fall, we may encourage new growth right before the winter months and this will ultimately weaken the tree. Remember, pruning is wounding and trees do not heal, they seal! When trees are wounded, the newly exposed tissue is prone to insect infestation and diseases. However, trees have the ability to naturally attempt to close wounds by forming specialized “callus” tissue around the edges of the wound and adding chemical barrier zones to protect the entry of decay and pathogens. The rate and effectiveness of this response differs by tree species and health but both functions – the chemical and the physical are needed. Pruning in late winter/early spring can help the tree for an optimum wound closure since during that time trees are normally heading into a season of rapid growth and they can compartmentalize the wound quickly.

Opting for “dormant pruning” also avoids spreading some diseases that are active mostly during the warm growing seasons. For example, Dutch elm disease, oak wilt and fire blight all spread quickly during the growing season.

Another reason to do your pruning in late winter is that there are no leaves on the trees and it is easier to evaluate the tree structure. Any dead or diseased branches, however, can be removed at any time of the year! Pruning in late winter and early spring causes less stress for trees and allows them to use their energy resources for healthier growth.

Hiring a certified professional arborist for any bigger pruning jobs is highly recommended. Proper pruning is critical for tree closure response and tree health in general. Trees are invaluable assets and it is definitely worth investing when it comes to tree care!

Community Spotlight: Rosanne Swalwell

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 15:44:43 GMT

Volunteer Spotlight: Rosanne Swalwell

Volunteers are essential to Oakvillegreen's success and we wanted to highlight one of our dedicated volunteers from 2021. We asked Rosanne what it means to volunteer with us and she did not disappoint. Read about her experience volunteering with Oakvillegreen, in her own words, below.

"Year after year, Yellow Swallowtail butterflies appear by the stream that flows through my backyard. I’m always in awe of their ‘spot on schedule’ return and watch as their yellow/black wings swoop and flit among the cedars and pines. But... naturalists’ warnings of the impact of climate change clouds my pleasure and I wonder how much longer these yellow enchanters will return bringing such joy and wonder?

This spring an edition of the Oakvillegreen Conservation newsletter arrived in my ‘Inbox’. Volunteers were being solicited to help construct pollinator gardens in Oakville. ‘Serendipity’, I thought and enthusiastically I signed up!

I arrived at Kingsford Gardens for my ‘first hands-on’ experience! But I saw only a dry, hard-packed-clay plot of land overflowing with weeds! This couldn’t possibly become a butterfly garden! If anything this was ground in need of something strong, like a tractor! I saw volunteers weeding… by hand! I joined in but with reluctance. Surely there had to be an easier way! However, I followed the lead of grade school and high school kids and elders already on site, as we slowly, oh so slowly, pulled up weeds with very long roots. Ugh! What little progress, I thought.

Weeks later I returned to Kingsford Gardens and couldn’t believe my eyes! First, the ‘plot’ was teeming with Oakvillegreen volunteers: teens, families with young children and elders with trowels and plants in hand. They were planting dozens and dozens of pollinator-friendly native plants. Oakvillegreen staff and volunteers had worked their magic by adding mounds of rich hummus into the former weed infested land transforming it into a meadow. A pollinator garden had become a reality and I was hooked!

As summer moved along, I continued to volunteer following a rotation working at various sites. At [Butterfly Wing Garden at Oak Park (beside Wellspring)], the transformation was happening once again. Weeds became a forgotten bad dream and a meadow slowly appeared sending a native-plant, flowery greeting to all those passing by.

As I worked with other volunteers and Oakvillegreen staff members, I learned about native plants and mini eco-systems both of which I knew little. I was the beneficiary of a very knowledgeable staff and what wonderful teachers they proved to be, answering questions with ease, sharing their unique and broad-based knowledge of native plants and so much more.

Although my concern for the future of the Yellow Swallowtail Butterfly continues, pollinator gardens are now an awe-inspiring reality in Oakville. Now for the next step…."

Thank you for your dedication to Oakville's pollinator gardens, Rosanne! You were quite the helping hand this year.

Volunteer with us

Get Involved in Your Community

Backyard treeplanting

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 13:25:18 GMT

Backyard Planting

Looking for a backyard tree?

Oakvillegreen Conservation Association Inc. previously partnered with the Town of Oakville to provide residents with backyard trees. This program is no longer running. If you’d like to add native trees to your property, explore our NATIVE PLANT SALE ONLINE STORE . If you would like to be notified once our sale opens, sign up here .

Lakeshore Road West Improvements

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 17:46:05 GMT

At the recent Special Meeting of Council on July 6, 2021, a motion was carried which concluded the EA process on the proposed Lakeshore Road West Improvements project. C ouncil voted to receive the proposed concept for the road but did not approve it.

Staff has now been instructed to undertake a detailed design process to include specific designs for elements such as the proposed multi-use path. The process must incorporate public consultation and public comments, which will be evaluated by staff and presented to Council in future.

Read the full text of the motion, here.

It is important for the community to remain engaged and involved with this project in order to protect trees and preserve this Scenic Corridor.

We will continue to update on this project as information becomes available.

oakvillegreen

From Monarchs to Whales: A Youth-Led Initiative

What is a Tree Protection Zone?

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

Why Be Happy to Have an Oak as Your Street Tree?

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

Creating a Berrytopia in Your Garden: Why it’s Important and Who it Attracts

Trees are SuperCool: Supercooling as a Winter Survival Strategy

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

Winter Sowing 101

Invasive Fact Sheet: Canada Thistle

Canada Thistle: Identification, Threats, & Removal

Invasive Fact Sheet: Field Bindweed

Field Bindweed: Identification, Threats, & Removal

Black spots on maple leaves?

Anelia’s Tree Corner

Interesting facts and tree care tips from certified arborist Anelia Tichkova

Invasive Fact Sheet: Phragmites (Common Reed)

Phragmites: Identification, Threats, & Removal

Oakvillegreen’s 2025 Achievements!

Our Impact Your Support ﻿

Growing a Greener Future: A New Mini Forest at the Halton Regional Centre

Conservation Halton Watershed Steward Award 2025

Biodiversity Action in Oakville Schools

Outreach, Generosity, and Kindness: Meet Margaret Larson

By Deborah Everest-Hill

Growing Awareness: Students Lead Native Plant Project

Raising Awareness About Local Insects, One Native Seed at a Time

Spring Is Here!

Spring Is Here!

Oakvillegreen's Milkweed Challenge

Oakvillegreen's Milkweed Challenge

Why Milkweed?

Help us reach our goal!

Launching Bring Monarchs Back!

Launching Bring Monarchs Back!

Get to Know Goldenrod!

City of Toronto's Get to Know Goldenrod Guide

Pollinators In The Winter- What Are They Up To?

Pollinators In The Winter- What Are They Up To?

Where do they go?

When do they come back?

How can we support their transition?

Proud to be Included in the OCF GIVEOakville 2024 Campaign!

Proud to be Included in the Oakville Community Foundation GIVEOakville 2024 Campaign! November 15th-December 9th

We launched our 25 Days of Giving campaign to raise $2500 for our programming and events. And here’s why we are so proud….

We launched our 25 Days of Giving campaign to raise $2500 for our programming and events. And here’s why we are so proud….

Celebrating the Oak Tree on National Tree Day

Celebrating the Oak Tree on National Tree Day

Recognizing our Youth Stewards of 2024!

Recognizing our Youth Stewards of 2024!

Weathering the Storm: Oakville's Heavy Rainfall and Connection to Climate Change

Weathering the Storm: Oakville's Heavy Rainfall and Connection to Climate Change

Schoolyard Pollinator Garden Guide!

Oakvillegreen's A Guide to Planting a Schoolyard Pollinator Garden

Climate Hope: Trailblazing PS David Williams is a Leader in Youth Environmental Action

Climate Hope: Trailblazing PS David Williams is a Leader in Youth Environmental Action ﻿

List of Native Plants

Created by Credit Valley Conservation

Building Resilience Through Community Partnerships

How Oakville Charitable Organizations Work Hand-in-hand to Increase Biodiversity and Promote Environmental Stewardship

A Year in Green

2023: A Recap

Stay Informed with the Latest Buzz

Climate change and its impact on pollinators

DIY Rain Garden Workshop Series

Come join the rain garden revolution!

European Buckthorn: Identification, Threats, and Removal

Video: Invasive European Buckthorn information

Invasive Fact Sheet: Dog-strangling Vine

Dog-strangling Vine: Identification, Threats & Removal

Invasive Fact Sheet: Garlic Mustard

Garlic Mustard: Identification, Threats & Removal

Invasive Fact Sheet: Amur Honeysuckle

Amur Honeysuckle: Identification, Threats and Removal

Invasive Fact Sheet: European Buckthorn

European Buckthorn: Identification, Threats & Removal

Our Impact Your Support

Climate Hope: Trailblazing PS David Williams is a Leader in Youth Environmental Action

When is the best time to prune?