Reason 1: To keep our tree canopy healthy.
In 2022, about 32% of Waterloo was covered by 39,000 trees. Planting the 10,000 new trees will add more than a quarter to our current inventory, which will keep our tree canopy at 32% or higher.

Reason 2: Grow a more diverse mix of trees.
Right now, most of our canopy comes from just a few types of trees: maples, oaks, lindens, and locusts. Relying on just a few types makes us vulnerable to pests or diseases, like the Emerald Ash Borer. For this project, we’re planting about 40 different species, guided by research from the Greening the Landscape Consortium.

Reason 3: Reduce the amount of grass the city needs to mow
With the addition of these trees, some park areas will be converted into natural, forested spaces. This will help with hard-to-maintain areas, like slopes or wet spots.

We're also planting to provide shade, ensure tree equity across neighbourhoods and to reduce the heat island effect.