May 22, 2025 - Stoney Island Community Tree Plant

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Thursday, May 22^nd, 2025

Thousands of Trees Planted at Stoney Island Conservation Area After Ash Removal

ALL SAUGEEN WATERSHED MUNICIPALITIES – Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, Municipality of Brockton, Township of Chatsworth, Municipality of Grey Highlands, Town of Hanover, Township of Howick, Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, Municipality of South Bruce, Township of Huron-Kinloss, Municipality of Kincardine, Town of Minto, Township of Wellington North, Town of Saugeen Shores, Township of Southgate, Municipality of West Grey –

Following the removal of more than 7,000 dead and hazardous ash trees at Stoney Island Conservation Area due to emerald ash borer infestation, Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) is proud to announce that more than 3,000 new native trees and shrubs have already been planted this spring.

SVCA staff planted over 1,000 trees, with another 2,000 trees and shrubs planted by the public during a Community Tree Plant held on May 17th. Volunteers of all ages, including members of the Kincardine Cross Country Ski Club, donated time and energy to help re-establish a healthier, more resilient forest.

"Regeneration has already begun. The sunlight now reaching the forest floor is triggering new growth, and we’re seeing nature adapt quickly. Watching this forest evolve will be fascinating after such significant ash loss.”

-          Donna Lacey, Manager of Forestry and Lands for SVCA.

Native species planted as seedlings and tall stock include white pine, white cedar, red oak, silver maple, tulip tree, shagbark hickory, black cherry, black walnut, sycamore, poplar, black willow, swamp white oak, and several native shrubs such as highbush cranberry, nannyberry, and red osier dogwood. By increasing species diversity, SVCA is helping to protect the area from future infestations and environmental stressors.

The community’s effort is helping to reshape the conservation area’s future. While the forest may look different today, it is recovering. This transformation is a chance to witness the resilience of nature and the power of collective stewardship.

SVCA extends sincere thanks to all volunteers who came out to plant, and to the Kincardine Cross Country Ski Club for their enthusiastic support.

For more information, please contact:
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
Email: media@svca.on.ca
Cell: 519-369-4295
Website: www.saugeenconservation.ca

Wyatt, Austin and Easton Harrigan prepare to plant trees.  They came prepared with their own shovels!

To download the press release, please click here.