City of Peterborough To Undergo Annual Urban Forest Maintenance

The City of Peterborough is performing annual urban forest maintenance to maintain public safety and the urban forests’ health from December 2025 to March 2026.  

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Trees identified for removal include: 

• Trees that are unhealthy or unsafe, typically marked with an orange dot.  

• Ash trees impacted by Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) marked with a pink dot or band. 

The identified trees are on City property, including parks, road allowances and natural spaces, where they may pose a risk to people or property. This proactive approach helps reduce potential property damage and public-safety risks while supporting the goals of the City’s long-term Urban Forest Strategic Plan. 

External contractors will remove Ash trees. 

Residents may notice crews working in various locations during this period and may be affected by temporary trail or parking area closures at parks. 

The work over the four months will include the removal of approximately 2,000 dead and dying Ash trees infested with EAB.  

Ash tree removals will take place in unmaintained parks and natural areas. Some of these areas are within Otonabee Conservation areas, regulated flood plain zones that restrict the use of equipment to protect the ecologically sensitive areas. The woody material (trunk, limbs, brush, etc.) will be left onsite to decompose naturally over time, adding organic material back to the site and encouraging wildlife habitat. Stumps will not be ground.  

Urban park fires are often related to human activity. To reduce this risk, park users should stay on trails, be aware that smoking is prohibited and report any fire immediately by calling 9-1-1. 

The 2026 tree-planting program will include planting up to 2,000 new trees across the city, supported by the Government of Canada’s 2 Billion Trees Program and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund. These efforts contribute to the City’s goal of achieving an overall tree canopy cover of 35 per cent by 2051. 

In future years, reforestation efforts could be implemented in the areas heavily impacted by the EAB to ensure the sustainability of the urban forest of Peterborough. 

Approximately 150 Ash trees are on municipal road allowances in residential areas, in addition to the road allowances, parks, and natural areas listed below.  

The following areas are scheduled for work during this period:  

Road name: 

• Driscoll Road  

• Guthrie Drive  

• Maniece Avenue  

• Nassau Mills Road/University Road 

Park name: 

• Ashburnham Memorial Park   

• Auburn Reach Park   

• Beavermead Park   

• Burnham Point Park   

• Chelsea Gardens Park   

• Collison Park   

• Corrigan Park   

• 120 Fradette Ave, green space 

• Giles Park   

• Golfview Heights Park   

• GreenUP Ecology Park   

• Hamilton Park   

• Jackson Park   

• James Stevenson Park   

• Kawartha Heights Park   

• Kinsmen Park   

• Mapleridge Park   

• Newhall Park   

• Nicholls Oval Park   

• Oakwood Park   

• Rogers Cove   

• Stenson Park   

• Stillman Park   

• University Heights Park   

• Walker Park   

• Wallis Heights Park   

• Whitefield Park 

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Otonabee Region Watershed Downgrades to Level 1 Low Water Condition

The Otonabee Region Water Response Team has downgraded the Otonabee Conservation watershed to a Level 1 Low Water Condition, following its Level 2 status since August.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

Above-average rainfall in September and October has eased the effects of this summer’s hot, dry weather. Otonabee Conservation states they will continue monitoring conditions and may return to normal status if precipitation remains sufficient in the coming weeks.

The Otonabee Region Water Response Team includes representatives from local municipalities, water managers, tourism and agriculture, provincial and federal agencies, First Nations and Otonabee Conservation.

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FCM Grant Helps City of Peterborough Enhance Urban Canopy

The City of Peterborough is restoring its urban canopy and increasing tree coverage by planting thousands of new trees through grants from the Government of Canada’s 2 Billion Trees Program and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund (GMF) totalling $1,623,230.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The money was from GMF’s Growing Canada’s Community Canopies (GCCC) initiative, to plant up to 4,000 trees throughout the city, maximizing benefits for residents and the City’s urban canopy. 

Jointly announced by the Government of Canada and FCM in May 2024, GCCC will support the planting of at least 1.2 million new trees across Canada by the end of March 2031, while providing funding, resources, and coaching to communities.  

“This initiative reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the impacts of climate change by restoring the vital ecosystems in our community,” said Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP. “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.”

“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,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “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.”

“With the right trees in the right places, communities of all sizes can unlock environmental, social and economic benefits,” said Rebecca Bligh, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. “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 of our communities.” 

Trees will be planted along road allowances, parks and open spaces. The City will maintain the trees.   

Factors like space, soil conditions, sunlight, and nearby utilities and structures will help determine the location and species of the tree to be planted. Large, native-growing trees are planted whenever possible.  

As part of the City’s annual tree planting program, notification letters are sent to property owners when a tree is going to be planted on a boulevard or road allowance. A door hanger is also provided when the tree planting location has been marked in advance of the planting.

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Trent University Receives $359,000 Grant From TD Bank Group For University Green Network

Trent University has received over $359,000 from the TD Bank Group (TD) to support conservation and learning on the University Green Network (UGN), announced on Wednesday.

A student conducts research in a forested area part of the University Green Network at Trent University. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The network is a large, interconnected 868-acre system on Trent’s Peterborough campus, including habitat restoration, biodiversity monitoring, Indigenous Knowledge integration, and experiential learning opportunities for students, according to Julie Davis, Trent's vice-president of external relations and development.

“Thanks to this latest funding from TD, we can take the next step in realizing the vision for the UGN – implementing the Ggwepnandizamin Systems-Level Plan,” she said. “The plan provides a structured approach to monitoring and enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem health across campus. This funding support will allow us to restore and enhance habitats, establish best practices in conservation, and create meaningful opportunities for students and the community to engage with the natural environment.”

This new grant builds on funding received from TD in 2022 to support multiple initiatives within the UGN, a system that includes diverse habitats, wildlife corridors, productive landscapes, and various green spaces that promote ecological function and biodiversity according to a press release. The UGN was first envisioned in the Trent Lands and Nature Areas Plan.

Earlier funding from TD facilitated the development of the Ggwepnandizamin Plan in collaboration with faculty, students, Michi Saagiig First Nations, and local organizations, including Camp Kawartha and Peterborough Green-Up.  The word Ggwepnandizamin means ‘together, putting our best effort forward towards something important’ in Anishinaabemowin. The name was provided by the Elders and Knowledge Keepers Council at Trent, who provided wisdom and guidance in developing the plan.

“Trent University's focus on enhancing biodiversity and embedding Indigenous Knowledge in environmental stewardship reflects a deep commitment to reconciliation and sustainability,” said Robyn Small, TD Bank Group senior manager, Philanthropy, Sustainability and Corporate Citizenship. “Through the TD Ready Commitment, TD is proud to continue supporting Trent University in advancing this important work that honours Indigenous knowledge and creates hands-on opportunities for students and community members to meaningfully connect with the environment.”

During the next three-year funding period, Trent says the will implement key actions from the Ggwepnandizamin Plan, including developing wildlife corridors and natural areas, such as pollinator gardens; creating Michi Saagiig cultural harvesting areas; reducing invasive species, such as phragmites; launching Indigenous storytelling initiatives; and expanding teaching and learning opportunities.

The grant will also fund a part-time ecological land planning coordinator to implement the plan, integrate ecological planning into campus projects, support environmental monitoring, facilitate Indigenous engagement and involve students and faculty.

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Brush Burning Ban Lifted In Selwyn Township

The Selwyn Fire Department has lifted the burn ban on brush, which was implemented on July 22, as announced on Wednesday.

photo courtesy of selwyn township.

With recent precipitation, the County’s fire department has permitted residents to resume open-air burning in accordance with the Township’s Open Air Burning By-law.

“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation during the burn ban,” said Gord Jopling, Fire Chief. “Your commitment helped prevent potential fires during a very dry period. While the burn ban on brush is lifted, everyone must continue to follow the rules and practice safe burning habits.”

Important Fire Safety Reminders:

• Open-air burning (such as campfires and outdoor fireplaces) is not permitted in built-up areas, including Lakefield, Bridgenorth, Ennismore, Young’s Point and Woodland Acres.

• Burn barrels are not permitted in the Township.

• Burning of noxious materials, leaves, grass clippings, or compost is prohibited.

• Burn permits are required for any fire that is not a campfire or outdoor fireplace.

  • Permits are issued only by the Selwyn Fire Department at Hall 1, 833 Ward Street, Bridgenorth. For information, call 705-292-7282.

• You do not need a burn permit for:

  • Campfires in a fire pit or fire container

  • Certified propane and natural gas appliances, fire pits, fire tables, or barbecues that are TSSA approved

• Maintain a 1:10 ratio for fire safe distance – for example, a fire that is two feet in diameter must have 20 feet of clearance in all directions.

• All fires must comply with the Township’s Open Air Burning By-law.

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Wedgewood Park Gets Urban Forestry Makeover With Over 500 Trees Planted By Volunteers

Over 500 trees were planted by over 100 volunteers and community partners at Wedgewood Park on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Located at 1535 Fairmount Blvd., the tree planting initiative, which saw 515 native tree species cultivated around the park. This is part of the Trees 4 Peterborough initiative.

“Trees 4 Peterborough has made a tremendous difference in strengthening our urban forest and creating greener, healthier spaces across our city,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell, Trees 4 Peterborough Founder. “Saturday's tree planting at Wedgewood Park is another wonderful example of how this program brings people together to make improvements in our neighbourhoods.”

Earlier this summer, approximately 250 Ash trees were removed from Wedgewood Park due to Emerald Ash Borer infestation.   

Donations to Saturday’s event include the following:     

• $10,000 from RBC  

• $5,000 from The Excelsior Group  

• $2,500 from Super 8 Peterborough  

• Equipment from Merrett Home Hardware  

• Lunch provided by East Side Mario’s   

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City of Peterborough Encourages Residents to Celebrate Nature During the Great Canadian BioBlitz

The City of Peterborough invites residents to step outside and celebrate the beauty of nature, while learning more about local biodiversity during the Great Canadian BioBlitz starting Sunday until Sept. 28.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The City describes a bioblitz as a fun and educational way to record observations of plants, animals, and fungi, which helps scientists better understand local population sizes and biodiversity trends. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to connect with the outdoors and explore the natural beauty of our city,” said City Councillors Joy Lachica and Kevin Duguay. “Whether you’re spotting birds, identifying trees, or just enjoying the fall colours, nature is something we all benefit from in Peterborough.” 

The City encourages residents to visit a City park to participate in self-guided bio-blitzes using the iNaturalist app. A complete list of the City’s parks can be found at peterborough.ca/parks. 

The Peterborough Field Naturalists are leading three guided walks in Peterborough-area parks to help residents learn more about the species living in the region.

• A tree Identification Forest Walk takes place Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 6:30 p.m.to 8 p.m. at Ecology Park, 1899 Ashburnham Dr. Meet at the shelter in the middle of the park by 6:30 p.m. 

• Two Mushroom Identification Walks are taking place on Sunday, Sept.r 21 and Sunday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park, 846 Highway 7. Register for the walks at peterboroughnature.org/events.   

These free family-friendly walks are open to all levels of nature enthusiasts.

To learn how to use iNaturalist, visit the Peterborough Public Library Learning Portal. Nature sightings can be uploaded directly to the Great Canadian BioBlitz project page in the iNaturalist app using the following link.

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Volunteers Encouraged to Help At Wedgewood Park's Tree-Planting Event This Saturday

Wedgewood Park is undergoing an urban forest update and the City is inviting residents to plant 515 new native tree species from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday.

Google Maps Screenshot.

“We expect over 60 volunteers,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “High school students are welcome to join us for community service hours.”

Volunteers can sign up for the event at peterborough.ca/trees. 

The tree planting is part of the Trees 4 Peterborough initiative. 

There are over 500 medium-sized trees and 20 big calliper trees to be planted.

This is due to significant damage from the Emerald Ash Borer. Roughly 250 dead or dying ash trees have been removed. Work will also include clearing dense understory vegetation dominated by invasive Buckthorn.

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Third Annual Monarch Festival and Race Hits Millennium Park This Saturday

To raise awareness about monarch butterflies and their contribution to the ecosystem, Monarch Ultra is hosting its third annual Monarch Festival and Race, taking place at Millennium Park this Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Carlotta James and The Monarch Ultra.

Activities included are a 10 km race and a one km Kids Fun Run along the Rotary Trail and Otonabee River. Start times are 9:30 a.m. for the one km Kids Fun Run and 10 a.m. for the 10 km Race. Following the race, the Monarch Butterfly Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Millennium Park.

The festival features Indigenous drumming, Zumba dancing, face painting, piñata fun, a scavenger hunt, a silent auction and environmental presentations. There are over twenty vendors invited to the festival. Participants can also receive free milkweed seeds to support Monarch conservation.

An art competition for high school students is being held, where the winner will receive a tote bag filled with art supplies from the Art Gallery of Peterborough.

This year’s fundraiser is for Camp Kawartha, to purchase native plants in the community.

The following is a map of the 10 km race:

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Lakefield Full Lawn Watering Ban Lifted: Annual Watering Restrictions Remain In Effect

Selwyn Township has lifted the Lakefield complete lawn watering ban for the Village of Lakefield but annual watering restrictions remain in effect for Lakefield and the Woodland Acres subdivision, announced on Thursday morning.

Photo courtesy of The Township of Selwyn.

This is in accordance with the Watering Restrictions By-law, aimed at helping to ensure an adequate water supply for all according to a press release.

Effective May 15 until further notice for Lakefield:

• Odd-numbered addresses: Water may be applied only on odd-numbered calendar days, between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.

• Even-numbered addresses: Water may be applied only on even-numbered calendar days, between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Watering Restrictions Effective June 1 until further notice for Woodland Acres:

• Odd-numbered addresses: Water may be used only on odd-numbered days, between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.

• Even-numbered addresses: Water may be used only on even-numbered days, between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.

Non-compliance may result in a $50 surcharge applied to their respective water bill.

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