Residents of Medicine Hat can help keep the city green and shady by participating in the city's new adopt-a-tree pilot project. - NEWS PHOTO KENDALL KING
The City of Medicine Hat is asking residents if they ‘wood’ consider taking part in its new adopt-a-tree pilot project.
Running until the end of September, the project is open to 200 city residents who, if selected, will water trees in their neighbourhood several times per week.
The project is billed as a win-win, as city trees will benefit from the guaranteed water supply, while residents have a chance to branch out with a new outdoor hobby.
“Our boulevard trees weather difficult growing conditions and yet provide residents with so many benefits.” Dave Genio, city parks manager, said. “We see just how much residents care about trees (so) this program is meant to get everyone involved in caring for them, so they continue to grow and thrive wherever they’re planted.”
Genio explained residents chosen to take part in the project will be directed as to how much water to give each tree, as determined by the trees’ age and size.
Jeff Quinlan, city Parks and Recreation technician, says the water can have a significant impact for trees as they endure the current dry and extreme hot weather conditions.
“We may be used to our hot and dry summers, but these trees endure road salts, compaction and can be impacted by area construction,” said Quinlan. “They often have limited soil to grow in and do so with minimal water… With regular watering we can ensure our trees are getting the nutrients they need.
“It’s easy to take our trees for granted, but it’s important we remember they provide oxygen, help to moderate air temperature, provide habitat to birds and wildlife and offer immeasurable beauty along with so many more benefits to our city.”
All residents interested in participating are asked to fill out a virtual form available on the city’s website, which includes their name, address, yard landscape type and the number of trees situated around their yard which they would like to adopt.
