Durham TREES: turning land into legacy through tree planting

Below is a summary of a newsletter article that originally appeared in the CLOCA Newsletter

Tree planting and sustainability initiatives in the Region

Durham Region is working in partnership with all five Conservation Authorities that service the Region to support tree planting and sustainability through programs like Durham TREES and SNAP (Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program). These initiatives help landowners and communities enhance natural spaces, promote biodiversity, and contribute to environmental conservation.

Durham TREES: A forest for the future

Through the Durham TREES program, private landowners with two or more acres of land can participate in subsidized tree planting efforts. With a minimum commitment of 500 trees, properties can transform into thriving ecosystems that improve air quality, support wildlife, and contribute to climate resilience.

For landowners with 10 or more acres of forest, the local Conservation Authority helps enroll participants in the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program, which can reduce property taxes by up to 75 per cent. These incentives make conservation efforts more accessible for residents looking to restore forested land.

With over 23,000 trees planted last year alone, the impact of Durham TREES is clear – our community is commitment to sustainability! Together, with the guidance of your local conservation authority, we can build a greener, healthier future for Durham Region!

LEAF Program

The Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF) Program supports landowners to plant more trees through their subsidized Backyard Tree Planting Program. LEAF is committed to protecting and improving our urban tree cover through planting, education, and training. They provide support to landowners to restore and improve properties by planting native trees and shrubs that help to provide a windbreak, absorb water where it falls, and reduce soil erosion.

Historical tree planting numbers for LEAF and Durham Trees:

LEAF Program:

2019: 40 trees

2020: 221 trees

Durham Trees Program:

2019: 289 trees

2020: 323 trees

2021: 452 trees

2022: 207 trees

2023: 860 trees

2024: 999 trees

Cumulative Totals (2019 to 2024):

LEAF: 261 trees

Durham Trees: 3,130 trees

SNAP: Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program

In addition to tree planting efforts, CLOCA’s SNAP program integrates sustainability into local communities through urban tree planting, stormwater management, and habitat restoration. SNAP projects help enhance Durham’s neighborhoods, ensuring they remain green and resilient.

Residents can get involved by participating in CLOCA-led tree planting events, learning about sustainable landscaping techniques, and supporting conservation initiatives in their areas.

Get involved

Whether you’re planting trees on your property or joining community-led sustainability projects, the Region of Durham and CLOCA provide valuable resources to help residents make a positive environmental impact.

Learn more about Durham TREES and SNAP programs by visiting CLOCA’s SNAP page or contact the Restoration Coordinator Roy Mosher at rmosher@cloca.com.