Project Background

The City of Camrose is continuing its work to maintain and improve its urban forest through a project to plant 400 trees across 13 parks and green spaces. The goal is to increase tree canopy, enhance public spaces, and ensure long-term environmental benefits for residents. All trees will be planted by December 31, 2027, as part of a project with a total budget of $262,000, funded through a 50/50 split between the approved GCCC grant and the City of Camrose.

Trees are an important part of everyday life in Camrose. They provide shade, help reduce heat during the summer, improve air quality, and support birds and other wildlife. They also contribute to the look and feel of neighbourhoods, making parks and outdoor spaces more comfortable and inviting for residents and visitors.

Over time, the City has seen changes in its urban forest. Some trees have been removed due to age, disease, or infrastructure work. At the same time, tree coverage is not evenly distributed across the community. Older neighbourhoods tend to have more mature trees and better canopy coverage, while newer areas often have fewer trees and less shade. This can lead to warmer conditions in those areas, especially during hot summer days.

This project is designed to address these gaps by planting trees in areas where they are needed most. By focusing on locations with lower canopy coverage and available space, the City aims to create more consistent tree coverage across Camrose. This will help improve comfort in parks and public spaces and support a more balanced urban environment.

Another key focus of the project is tree diversity. In the past, many prairie communities relied on a smaller number of common tree species. While these trees have provided many benefits, relying too heavily on a limited number of species can increase the risk of large-scale tree loss if pests or diseases spread. To reduce this risk, the City will plant a variety of tree species that are well suited to the local climate. This approach helps create a stronger, more resilient urban forest over the long term.

Planting will be completed by City staff, with care taken to ensure the trees are properly installed and supported. Newly planted trees require regular maintenance to become established. This includes watering, mulching, and monitoring during the first few years. As the trees grow, they will be added to the City’s regular tree maintenance program.

This project builds on the City’s ongoing commitment to managing and enhancing its urban forest. By increasing tree canopy and improving tree diversity, the City is investing in healthier parks, more comfortable neighbourhoods, and a stronger environment for current and future residents.