Funding and Volunteer Support for Airpark Tree Planting

Heavy rains and a chill wind were no deterrent for a hardy group of volunteers helping the City of Courtenay with important habitat restoration at the Courtenay Airpark.

Members of Comox Valley Nature joined City parks staff on Thursday October 21 for a tree planting event, funded by a BC Hydro ReGreening Grant in partnership with Tree Canada.

Around 65 new trees were planted in the area around the Airpark lagoon, contributing to Courtenay’s urban forest canopy and wildlife habitat. The trees will also provide screening to help prevent disturbance of migrating birds, and contribute to the health of a Garry oak ecosystem that has been developed in the park over time through efforts by Comox Valley Nature.

Mike Kearns, the City of Courtenay’s manager of parks maintenance, said that while the weather was not ideal for crews and volunteers, it was great for the trees. “Fall is our main planting season for the year, with the damp soil and cooler temperatures supporting the establishment of healthy root systems,” said Kearns. “The rain will give these trees a nice head start in their new habitat. We’re really grateful to the volunteers and project partners for supporting this project. I’d also like to acknowledge the staff involved with the project for their hard work and dedication.”

Other improvements in the area leading up to the event included invasive species control and soil preparation. Grow Tree Care donated mulch for the event, and Comox Valley Nature will assist the City with ongoing tree care and invasive species control in the area.

For more information, contact City of Courtenay Public Works Services at 250-338-1525 or email publicworks@courtenay.ca