Growing Greener: How Tree Planting is Transforming the Trail in Ontario
Across Ontario, communities are coming together to plant trees — and the impact reaches far beyond the shovel and soil.
Trees provide shade, clean the air, create habitat for wildlife and strengthen ecosystems. Along the Trans Canada Trail in Ontario, new trees are reshaping the landscape — bringing more green space, more biodiversity and more beauty to the places we explore.
It’s a simple but powerful way to protect the Trail — and the natural spaces it connects — for generations to come.
Photo: City of Ajax | ON — Trans Canada Trail
Why trees matter
Planting trees is one of the most practical, lasting ways to support healthy ecosystems.
Trees improve air quality, reduce erosion, cool surrounding areas and provide essential food and shelter for birds, pollinators and other wildlife. Their roots help stabilize the soil, while their branches offer habitat and protection.
When planted with care, trees grow stronger every year — building more resilient landscapes with little maintenance required.
Photo: Waterfront Trail | Thunder Bay, ON — Michael Hull, Walkersmoon Imaging and Photography Services
Small projects. Big impact.
With support from Trans Canada Trail’s Planting for Tomorrow program, communities across Ontario are turning empty spaces into thriving green corridors.
The Greening Ajax project, just outside Toronto, is just one example. In 2023, with help from the Town of Ajax, community volunteers and the non-profit group Yours Truly, 200 native trees took root along a previously underused stretch of roadside.
White spruce, aspen, serviceberry and cedar — all chosen for their ability to thrive locally — are now helping to beautify the area, support biodiversity and create a healthier space for residents and passersby alike.
It’s proof that even small community projects — with the right trees in the right places — can make a lasting impact.
Photo: City of Ajax | ON — Trans Canada Trail
See how Ajax is growing a greener future
Let’s grow a greener Ontario
Protecting the landscapes we love doesn’t always mean grand projects. Sometimes, it starts with one tree, one patch of green space, one small step to give nature room to thrive.
If you’ve ever thought about planting trees in your community — along the Trail or close to home — we’ve made it easy to get started.
Our free Tree Planting Resource Guide offers practical tips to help you choose the right species, prepare your site, and give trees the best chance to grow strong — all with a focus on building healthy, resilient ecosystems.
Every tree planted can help nature bounce back, one green space at a time.
Photo: Uxbridge Trans Canada Trail | ON — Stuart Blower
Download the Tree Planting Resource Guide
