Free workshops to inform about planting trees

Protecting the environment can seem like a daunting challenge, but the largest problems often have the simplest solutions.

Planting just one tree can have lasting benefits for the air people breathe, the water they drink and the land they share.

Residents of the northern Greater Toronto Area can learn all about tree planting and care at one of two free workshops called From Start to Forest, which are being offered by the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA).

Workshops will be held Feb. 6 and 11 and are being offered in partnership with York Environmental Stewardship, the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation and The Regional Municipality of York.

"By planting trees today we can improve air and water quality, and generate wildlife habitat for generations to come," said Phil Davies, manager of watershed stewardship with LSRCA. "The upcoming workshops are an opportunity for residents to receive expert advice on tree planting and care, and learn about the various grant funding programs available to them."

From Start to Forest workshops will be held at The Caledon Community Complex, at 6215 Old Church Rd., in Caledon East tonight (Wednesday) from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, contact Christa Sharp at (905) 895-1281, ext. 225. The other workshop will be at the Lion's Hall in Mount Albert, at 5057 Mt. Albert Rd. (southwest corner of Mount Albert Road and Highway 48) Feb. 11 from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information on this session, contact Peter Burtch at (905) 895- 1281, ext. 326.