If you’re a Calgary homeowner or part of a local community group looking to enhance your property with trees, you may be wondering what programs and grants are available to help you. Thanks to city initiatives, federal funding, and non-profit programs, Calgary is working hard to expand its urban tree canopy and make the city greener for everyone. Here’s an overview of Calgary’s top tree planting programs and grants, along with tips on how you can participate and transform your landscape with expert help from Evergreen LTD.
Why Expanding Calgary’s Urban Forest Matters
Calgary’s unique climate—cold winters, dry conditions, and Chinook winds—poses challenges for maintaining a robust urban canopy. With tree coverage sitting at only 8.25% as of 2022, Calgary has committed to doubling the canopy to 16% by 2060. Trees offer essential benefits, including:
Improving air quality
Reducing energy costs through shade and wind protection
Enhancing property value and curb appeal
Creating healthier, more vibrant communities
By participating in tree planting programs and grants, Calgary residents can play a key role in growing the urban forest while enjoying the beauty and functionality trees bring to their properties.
City of Calgary Tree Planting Programs
The Branching Out Program
The City of Calgary’s Branching Out Program is designed to get residents directly involved in increasing the city’s tree canopy. Launched in 2019, this initiative offers free trees to homeowners who complete the city’s “Right Tree, Right Location” e-learning module. This ensures participants plant trees suited to their property’s conditions for long-term success.
Goal: Increase Calgary’s canopy coverage from 8.25% to 16% by 2060.
How It Works: Homeowners can receive free trees to plant on their properties. In 2024, the program distributed 5,000 trees, with more to come in 2025.
Why It’s Important: Planting the right tree in the right spot helps trees thrive, reduces maintenance, and ensures a healthier landscape.
Federal Collaboration: Canada’s 2 Billion Trees Program
In November 2024, Calgary partnered with the federal government under Canada’s 2 Billion Trees (2BT) Program, receiving a $61 million investment to plant 930,000 trees across the city.
Focus Areas: Diversifying tree species, restoring canopy cover, and improving soil conditions in neighborhoods citywide.
Community Impact: Planting efforts are spread equitably, creating greener neighborhoods and healthier urban spaces.
This initiative contributes significantly to Calgary’s long-term goal of doubling its tree canopy, while also promoting climate resilience and biodiversity.
Non-Profit and Community-Based Grants
Tree Canada Grants
Tree Canada, a leading national non-profit, offers grants to support community and residential tree planting:
Treemendous Communities: Provides up to $10,000 for community-based projects, covering costs like tree purchasing, planting, site preparation, and maintenance. Ideal for neighborhoods, schools, and community groups.
Edible Trees: Offers up to $10,000 for planting fruit- and nut-bearing trees, promoting food security and local engagement. Perfect for schools, food banks, and community orchards.
Calgary Tree Planting Society
The Calgary Tree Planting Society is a local non-profit dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability. The organization:
Organizes tree planting events
Provides educational resources for volunteers
Encourages hands-on community involvement
Their mission is to inspire Calgarians to actively participate in growing the city’s tree canopy.
How Evergreen LTD Can Help You Plant the Right Tree
While these grants and programs make trees more accessible, planting the right tree—and planting it properly—requires expertise. That’s where Evergreen LTD comes in.
Our team of ISA Certified Arborists understands Calgary’s unique climate and soil conditions, helping you:
Select the right tree species for privacy, shade, or curb appeal.
Ensure proper planting techniques for long-term success.
Care for newly planted trees to maximize growth and health.
Whether you’re taking advantage of free trees from the Branching Out Program or planning a community tree project with Tree Canada, Evergreen LTD ensures every tree thrives, beautifying your property for generations.
Why Planting Trees in Calgary Matters
Participating in Calgary’s tree planting initiatives isn’t just about enhancing your property—it’s about contributing to the city’s future. Trees play a critical role in:
Improving air quality for healthier communities.
Reducing energy costs through natural shade and windbreaks.
Combating climate change by sequestering carbon.
Boosting property value with well-planned landscaping.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to plant in your backyard or part of a group organizing a community project, these programs make it easier than ever to take part in growing Calgary’s urban forest.
Start Your Tree Planting Journey Today
Ready to plant a tree on your property? Let Evergreen LTD help you every step of the way. From selecting the perfect tree to ensuring it’s planted and cared for properly, we make it simple to create a vibrant, lasting landscape.
Book a consultation with Evergreen LTD today and join Calgary’s mission to expand its urban forest. Together, we can make your property greener and Calgary’s future brighter.
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