The Region of Waterloo cares for more than 36,000 trees and other greenery across its urban spaces. These green spaces play an important role in building a healthy, sustainable community. That is why we are creating our first Urban Forestry Management Plan. This plan will help us better understand the trees and green spaces we have today, and guide how we care for them so they can thrive for years to come.

Trees do a lot for our community. They provide shade, help clean the air, manage rainwater and support healthy soil. Pollinator gardens create habitat for insects and animals that help support fruit and vegetable growth across the Region. Roundabout gardens enhance safety, but also add beauty and environmental benefits.

This plan will create a clear inventory of the Region’s trees and green spaces and set out practical ways to manage them. It will help us monitor tree health, plan for maintenance, plant new trees and replace aging ones when needed. It will also help us make thoughtful decisions about how to invest time and resources to keep these natural assets strong.

For residents, this means greener neighbourhoods, more comfortable streets and trails, and healthier public spaces to enjoy. It is also a chance to help shape how our urban forest grows and is cared for in the future.

Ultimately, this plan is about protecting and growing the trees and green spaces that make our community a better place to live.

We want to hear from residents and stakeholders in Waterloo Region on what is working, what we need to improve and what we need to consider as we develop this plan.

There is a short survey below that you can complete to help inform the plan's development. Based on that feedback, we'll share a draft plan to residents and Regional Council for approval.