Submitted by Gina Pannunzio on behalf of the Essex Region Conservation Authority

Over the past few weeks, ERCA has been planting and distributing more than 125,000 trees across the watersheds of the Windsor Essex region. This work is extremely important locally as trees play a critical role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. They also play an important role in helping us to adapt to a changing climate by protecting us from flooding and severe storms, and by providing shade during increasingly hot weather. They will also continue to provide critical habitat for many plants and animals that will also find adapting to a changing climate challenging. There is no doubt that we need more trees and better-connected forests to address climate change and create a healthy region for future generations.

Essex County faces many ecological challenges, as it is part of one of the most populated corridors in Canada. As well, it is part of the unique ecoregion, the Carolinian Life Zone. This region comprises of only 1% of Canada’s total land mass, but is home to more flora and fauna species than any other area in Canada. Prior to European settlement, Essex County was dominated by natural areas, including Carolinian woodlands, wetlands and tall grass prairies.

Since then, much of the landscape has changed or is extremely degraded to accommodate a growing population. This degradation is a direct or indirect result of clearing and increasing drainage for timber, agriculture and urban development. The represents a loss of 95% original forest cover and 97% loss of wetlands. Essex County’s natural heritage loss has resulted in a decline in species populations native to the region; many recognized as species at risk.

While the Essex Region Conservation Authority has planted more than 6 million trees and achieved an 8.5%, natural areas coverage, more action is needed to reach our 12% target. This target was established by ERCA to reflect the United Nations goal of 12% natural areas for a sustainable balance between nature and development across a landscape.

For those interested in ERCA’s various tree planting programs, visit https://essexregionconservation.ca/stewardships-grants/tree-planting/. Mark your calendars, ERCA opens up tree planting orders for landowners in January/February and pick up is around Earth Day in April.