Peterborough is expanding its urban canopy thanks to a $1.6 million grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Growing Canada’s Community Canopies initiative. The funding will allow the city to plant up to 4,000 new trees along streets, parks, and open spaces.
“I’m delighted that Peterborough is benefitting from the Growing Canada’s Community Canopies grant. This initiative reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the impacts of climate change by restoring the vital ecosystems in our community. Planting trees brings immediate benefits to all living beings and lasting benefits for generations to come. I’m proud to be part of planting the seeds today that our children and grandchildren will one day enjoy,” said Emma Harrison, MP for Peterborough.
Mayor Jeff Leal added, “Fair and equal access to trees means ensuring that every resident, in every neighbourhood, can enjoy the cleaner air, shade, and beauty that our urban forest provides. The support from this FCM grant will not only help us expand canopy coverage city-wide, but it will also allow us to replace the many trees we’ve lost. Peterborough’s tree canopy has been greatly impacted over the last few years by a derecho in May of 2022, the ice storm in March of 2025, and the invasive emerald ash borer. With this grant, we’ll be able to rebuild and replenish our urban forest, making sure the benefits of trees are shared equitably while building a greener, more resilient Peterborough for the future.”
Rebecca Bligh, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, said, “With the right trees in the right places, communities of all sizes can unlock environmental, social and economic benefits. Through the Growing Canada’s Community Canopies initiative, our municipalities now have access to the funding, training and resources they need to make tree planting a smart investment in the long-term health and resilience’s of our communities.”
Residents can request a tree if their property frontage does not already have one by visiting peterborough.ca/trees or calling 705-745-1386. The City will maintain all newly planted trees, with locations chosen based on space, sunlight, soil, and surrounding structures.
