Free trees and shrubs offered to Oshawa residents

Free trees and shrubs are being given out to Oshawa residents and property owners, thanks to the Oshawa Environmental Advisory Committee (OEAC).

There are a limited number available and if you want one (or two), you need to register online by Friday, October 8. Residents and property owners must be available to pick-up their plants the morning of Saturday, October 16, or will need to identify the name of the person who will be making the pick-up for them during the registration process.

There are three types being offered:

1. White Cedar – a slow-growing coniferous tree with yellowish-green fan shaped twigs.
2. Sugar Maple – the national tree of Canada which is a large deciduous tree with yellowish-green leaves.
3. Black Chokeberry – a shrub that can be planted or remain potted that produces small white flowers and dark berries that can be used to make jams, teas and more.

“The members of OEAC are committed to helping Oshawa increase the percentage of green cover throughout the area. Trees build the urban canopy and give many advantages such as helping to absorb both heat and greenhouse gases, supporting local wildlife and strengthening the soil structure,” said Valerie Bowler, Chair of the Oshawa Environmental Advisory Committee. “OEAC members have worked hard to organize this free give away, so residents have the opportunity to get a tree for their property.  Three native species were selected because they will grow well in this climate and will support the local fauna. We hope it’s a big hit again this year!”

The plants will be distributed in order of registration. After registration closes on Friday, October 8, 2021, all registrants will be notified of the status of their submission via email or phone (depending on the contact information provided). Successful registrants will be notified of the drive-through pick-up time and location before Saturday, October 16, 2021. To meet COVID-19 protocols, registrants are asked to remain in their car and open their trunk, as an attendant will load their tree and/or shrub.

This event will run rain or shine.