Thinking About Planting Trees in 2027? Now is the Time to Start Planning

KAWARTHA WATERSHED - As another growing season comes to an end, Kawartha Conservation is already looking ahead to 2027 and encouraging landowners across the watershed to start thinking about where trees could make a difference on their property.

Kawartha Conservation is seeking landowners interested in tree planting projects for 2027, from creating new forest cover and expanding existing wooded areas to establishing windbreaks and planting buffers along streams and other water features.

For landowners, the first step is simply starting a conversation.

“You don't need to have everything figured out before you contact us,” said Hunter Girdler, Forestry and Landowner Services Technician with Kawartha Conservation. “If you have an area where you've been thinking about planting trees, we can look at the property, talk about what you're hoping to accomplish and determine what options may be available. Starting that conversation now gives us time to properly plan for 2027.”

Through its tree planting services and partnerships, Kawartha Conservation works with eligible landowners to develop projects suited to their properties and long-term goals.

Kawartha Conservation's Full Service Tree Planting program, delivered in collaboration with Forests Canada, supports larger planting projects and may cover between 40 and 85 per cent of eligible project costs. Projects can include afforestation, reforestation, riparian buffers and windbreaks.

Within Durham Region, additional opportunities may also be available through Durham TREES, a partnership between Durham Region and local conservation authorities that supports tree planting on private lands.

The programs are designed to make larger-scale tree planting more accessible while ensuring projects are planned for the conditions of each property.

“Planting trees is a long-term investment in your property and in the watershed,” said Girdler. “The right planting can provide habitat, protect soil and water, create shade and shelter, and establish something that will continue providing benefits for decades.”

In 2025 alone, more than 23,000 trees were planted through Kawartha Conservation's Forests Canada Tree Planting Program, alongside thousands more trees, shrubs and native plants distributed or planted through other stewardship initiatives.

With planning for the 2027 planting season getting underway, landowners who have suitable space and are interested in exploring a tree planting project are encouraged to reach out now.

There is no need to know which program is right for your property before contacting Kawartha Conservation. Girdler can discuss the proposed planting area and landowner goals, help determine potential eligibility and identify available programs or funding opportunities.

For more information contact Hunter Girdler at 705.328.2271 ext. 249.