The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority is getting ready to plant more than 50,000 trees throughout the watershed and oxford area.
OXFORD - The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority is Kicking off spring April 4th, by planting more than 50,000 trees.
The trees are to be planted throughout the Upper Thames watershed starting April 4th. Mainly the trees will be planted in rural areas and on private land. This tree planting drive comes with several goals. The Conservation Authority is looking create natural buffers along water courses, plant wind breaks along farmers fields, improve air quality, increase the recreational value of property, and create habitats for wildlife.
John Enright, Forester for the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority weighs in on the effects some of their goals have
"There are many benefits to planting trees but from a conservation standpoint, soil conservation and improved water quality are probably the two main points. Using the trees as field windbreaks will help hold soil on the ground and improve crop yield. We are planting trees along water course in an effort to stop soil from eroding into the waterways and possibly contaminating it."
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority is trying to keep a great diversity with their tree plantings. 12 -15 species of tree are being planted in the area, with around 8 species in any given sight.
John Enright, Forester for the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority explains the importance of diversity.
" We always look at diversity as being very important, especially after we have had some of these invasive species come through like the emerald ash borer. Another problem on the way is oak wilt so it just seems that with so many of our trees under threat. We hope that by diversifying our plantings we can help prevent some of these future threats to our forest cover."

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