Tree-planting to honour Queen Elizabeth II

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 19/10/2022 (229 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

As we enter the autumn months, the changing colours of our trees are not only a reminder of inevitable change, but also a reminder of how vital trees are to our neighbourhood. They make our streets and parks more enjoyable, aid the environment, increase biodiversity, and improve our quality of life. I am thrilled to announce that over the coming months, more trees will be planted at local Garden City parks and tot lots in remembrance of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Unique varieties developed locally in Manitoba, including unique royal varieties, have been selected for this project. Trees being planted include special maples, hardy for Winnipeg’s climate, royal purple birches and blooming ornamentals that will provide new textures and colours to our parks.

These trees will provide residents with a unique opportunity to remember and reflect on the Queen’s service to Canadians and her visits to our city. Queen Elizabeth visited Winnipeg many times — in fact, as many times as she visited Washington D.C. She took her role as Queen of Canada to heart, sharing her fondness for our country and often talked of coming “home.” The outpouring of shared memories last month highlighted her close connections to Canadians.

Originally envisioned to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee — marking her 70 years on the throne—Garden City’s tree-planting project will continue as a fitting tribute to her legacy. In preparation for her Platinum Jubilee events and celebrations, the late Queen Elizabeth personally advocated for a ‘green canopy’ project to celebrate the historic occasion. The Garden City trees will be part of the worldwide initiative to strengthen and increase the number of trees throughout the Commonwealth. Even after the Queen’s passing, these projects are continuing in her honour to fulfil the goal to have a greener world.

Funding from the Government of Canada, in partnership with local councillor Devi Sharma (Old Kildonan) and Trees Winnipeg, have made this special project possible. It is a pleasure to work collaboratively to improve our local neighbourhood parks and enrich our public spaces for generations to come. These special trees will create a living legacy fit for the Queen.

Daniel Guenther
Garden City community correspondent

Daniel Guenther is president of the Garden City Residents’ Association and a community correspondent for his neighbourhood. Email him at: gardencitywinnipeg@gmail.com

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