Tree service growing
South Nation Conservation’s forestry service has grown to include the counties of StormontDundas-Glengarry.
The conservation authority, whose tree program has been supported by Prescott-Russell since 2013, is now offering assistance to property owners in SDG.
“Through our Woodlot Advisory Service, a forestry technician will visit your property and suggest management options based on a preliminary site evaluation,” said Cheyene Brunet, SNC’s forestry technician. “The program can also assist landowners looking to learn more about their woodlot and tree identification.”
The technician will provide a report including aerial photography, general tree health, species identification, potential uses, economic value, and how a landowner might improve management approaches to make it more sustainable.
To be eligible for the free advisory service, landowners must reside or own land within SDG or UCPR and have ten acres or more of forested land.
Property owners will also receive information about programs, such as the Ontario Managed Forest Tax Program, which can provide a tax reduction of up to 75 per cent on privatelyowned residential land in Ontario.
Landowners who complete a Forest Management Plan through the Ontario Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program are eligible for a subsidy of up to $500 through SNC’s partner-funded program.
To learn more about SNC’s Woodlot Advisory Service visit: www.nation.on.ca/land/forestryservices/woodlot-advisory-service.
In addition to SNC’s Woodlot Advisory Service, residents can also benefit from a variety of tree planting subsidies and programs for idle land, stream banks, and buffer strips.
Over-the-counter tree sales are also available for smaller orders and are accepted year-round. Think spring and trees. Although it may be the middle of winter, it’s not too early to start planning your outdoor beautification projects, notes SNC, which is accepting tree orders until March 1.
Residents of the jurisdiction can order conifer and deciduous trees and shrubs from SNC at a reduced rate through the 2018 Tree Planting Program. “Trees provide many unique benefits; they add aesthetic appeal, provide shade and can even increase property value,” said Ms. Brunet.
“Plus, planting trees is a great way to enhance local forest cover and help reduce erosion.”
A minimum of 100 seedlings in multiples of 50 species can be ordered, while quantities last.
HEALTHY STAND: bucolic wintry scenes. Trees provide habitat for wildlife, combat erosion, shelter from the wind, and
SOFT COVER: Corn stubble can often reflect weather conditions. This photo last week shows the result of a January thaw followed by a dusting of snow. However, a thicker, more protective, blanket fell this week as the region received about 20 centimetres of the white stuff over the course of a few days.