April 24, 2026
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), in partnership with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF), is expanding tree planting efforts across the watershed following a $65,000 grant from the Niagara Community Foundation
The funding will support a series of tree planting projects this spring through the Trees for All program, including planting efforts across approximately two hectares at five sites within the Niagara Peninsula watershed. These projects will help restore forested areas, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience across the region.
The impact was on display this morning during an Earth Day planting event in Fort Erie, where volunteers, staff, and community partners planted 500 native trees along Thunder Bay Road. The event marked the first in a series of plantings supported through the grant this spring.
“This investment has helped us expand tree planting in priority areas while bringing the community directly into the work,” said Leilani Lee-Yates, Chief Administrative Officer & Secretary-Treasurer, NPCA. “By planting native species, we are strengthening local ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and building resilience to a changing climate.”
Additional projects supported through the grant will take place at sites across the Niagara Peninsula watershed, including locations in Wainfleet, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls, contributing to broader tree planting efforts delivered in partnership with municipalities, community groups, and local organizations.
Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop, Chief Administrative Officer Chris McQueen, and Councillors Christensen and Lewis all took part in the Earth Day planting, highlighting the importance of local partnerships in advancing environmental action.
“Projects like this bring people together in a meaningful way,” said Mayor Redekop. “It’s encouraging to see community members and organizations working together to invest in Fort Erie’s natural environment.”
The Trees for All program is supported through a combination of community investment and government funding. In addition to local contributions, the program receives support from the Government of Canada through the 2 Billion Trees Program, helping to expand restoration efforts and increase tree canopy across the watershed.
Residents can be part of Niagara’s growing restoration story by volunteering at upcoming plantings or supporting tree planting efforts through the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation. Learn more at https://npca.ca/get-involved or donate at https://npcf.ca/donate.
