Burlington Named 'Tree City of the World' for Third Year Running
Burlington's commitment to urban forestry has been recognised internationally. The city has been named a 'Tree City of the World' for the third consecutive year. This follows the approval of the Urban Forest Master Plan and the launch of a tree maintenance rebate pilot program, which has already added nearly 4000 trees to the landscape.
The city's dedication to protecting and enhancing its tree canopy is evident in its investment in urban forestry. This year alone, the forestry budget stands at $5.48 million, with $3.48 million allocated for tree maintenance and $1.3 million for tree planting and forest health initiatives. Additionally, $670,000 has been set aside for forest protection.
Burlington's leadership in urban forestry has been highlighted by innovative projects. The Middle Way conversion project and a partnership with the University of Toronto to monitor forest health using drone technology are notable examples. The city's success in urban forestry is due to its rigorous approach, meeting international standards in five key areas: creating a tree care plan, managing urban trees, maintaining an inventory of trees, allocating resources, and celebrating trees annually.
Burlington's recognition as a 'Tree City of the World' is a testament to its commitment to urban forestry and climate resilience. The city's investment in urban forestry, innovative projects, and community-driven efforts have led to this prestigious recognition. With a robust forestry budget and a comprehensive approach to tree management, Burlington continues to lead in urban forestry.