Port Colborne’s free tree giveaway and rain barrel sale returns

Port Colborne residents are invited to contribute to a greener community with the return of an annual tree giveaway at the end of this month.

Hosted by the City of Port Colborne and its Environmental Advisory Committee, the event is planned for Sept. 27 at the Vale Health & Wellness Centre on Elizabeth Street.

The giveaway will begin at 11 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.

Five hundred one-gallon potted saplings will be distributed (limit of two trees per household). Residents can choose from a variety of native tree species, including:

• Black gum
• Bur oak
• Northern hackberry
• Pin oak
• Red maple
• Red oak
• Sugar maple
• Tulip
• White birch, and
• White swamp oak.

The initiative is part of the City’s efforts to expand Port Colborne’s urban tree canopy. All trees must be planted on private property.

The City has also partnered with FCMP Outdoor to offer 189-litre (50-gallon) Raincatcher rain barrels to residents for $45 (limit of two per household). Rain barrels must be purchased online in advance and can be picked up at the event between 9 a.m. and noon.

“Using a rain barrel can be an effective way to conserve water, offering residents a practical way to reuse rainwater for tasks like watering plants, washing vehicles, or cleaning outdoor equipment, all while supporting the City’s stormwater infrastructure,” a statement from the City reads.

Proof of residency is required for both the free tree giveaway and rain barrel pickup. For more information visit the City of Port Colborne’s environment page.

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