Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is supporting the Greenbelt Foundation with $12 million over the next three years. Projects delivered through this funding will focus on planting trees to increase natural cover, enhancing recreational opportunities for people to experience nature, and maintaining and enhancing green infrastructure and climate resilience.
“The greenbelt is an important part of our province consisting of farmland, forests, wetlands and watersheds, it is a natural treasure,” said Jeff Yurek, minister of the environment, conservation and parks.
“It’s important to support the ongoing work of the Greenbelt Foundation so it can protect and enhance this vital area – for the benefit of Ontarians today and for future generations.”
The investment will enable the Foundation to continue its work by offering grants, supporting research, and providing information, knowledge and awareness through four key programs:
- Activities such as native tree, shrub and other vegetation plantings to increase natural cover, along with projects that create opportunities to experience the Greenbelt.
- Research to improve knowledge and understanding of the Greenbelt and its benefits.
- Developing partnerships with community groups and organizations to help support projects that protect and restore the Greenbelt.
- Public outreach to increase knowledge, awareness and understanding of the Greenbelt, and its social, rural economic and recreational opportunities.
“The Greenbelt Foundation welcomes funding and will invest in projects, programs, and outreach initiatives that encourage people to engage with, experience, and enjoy everything the Greenbelt region has to offer,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO, Greenbelt Foundation.
“We look forward to working with the province and our partners to build on previous work and successes and ensure the Greenbelt’s natural and agricultural landscapes remain protected and continue to support thriving communities and rural economies.”
The Greenbelt includes the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Niagara Escarpment, protected countryside and urban river valleys.
Ontario has launched a 60-day consultation to grow the Greenbelt. Have your say by emailing greenbeltconsultation@ontario.ca or through the Environmental Registry of Ontario. The consultation closes on April 19, 2021.