The Town of Saugeen Shores is taking a significant step toward environmental sustainability with the approval in principle of the Urban Tree Canopy Plan (UTCP).
The comprehensive strategy, endorsed by Council on December 16, 2024, aims to nurture and expand the town's urban tree population, delivering both immediate and long-term benefits to the community.
“The Urban Tree Canopy Plan shows our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “This initiative reflects our dedication to maintaining the tree canopy of Saugeen Shores and to ensuring a vibrant, green future for generations to come.”
The UTCP outlines 22 key recommendations to be implemented over the next decade, focusing on five critical areas:
Tree Maintenance: Ensuring the health and longevity of the existing tree population.
Tree Planting: Expanding the urban forest through strategic planting initiatives.
Development Review: Incorporating tree preservation and planting into urban planning processes.
Awareness and Education: Engaging the community in understanding the value of a thriving tree canopy.
Urban Tree Conservation By-law: Establishing regulations to protect the urban forest.
The plan underscores the environmental, ecological, and economic benefits of a healthy tree canopy, including improved air quality, enhanced biodiversity, reduced urban heat, and increased property values.
With the UTCP as a guiding framework, Saugeen Shores is positioning itself as a leader in environmental stewardship, working to ensure that the town’s green spaces continue to flourish for future generations.