Pelham marks National Tree Day with first community tree nominated for designation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 24, 2025

Pelham, ON – The Town of Pelham is excited to announce the first tree nomination received through Pelham’s Heritage and Significant Community Tree Program, part of the Protecting Pelham’s Trees initiative launched earlier this summer. The announcement comes as Pelham marks National Tree Day, observed every September on the Wednesday of National Forest Week, a day to honour the beauty, strength, and vital role of trees in Pelham and across Canada.

A Pelham resident has nominated a Red Oak (Quercus rubra) with an impressive trunk measuring 77 cm in diameter. Red Oaks can be found across Southern Ontario and this particular tree is believed to be one of the trees planted when the area was a plant nursery. The Fonthill family have nominated this oak as it has become a cherished feature in the homeowner’s backyard. This nomination highlights the deeply personal and ecological value of trees that help shape Pelham’s neighbourhoods and enrich everyday life.

In addition to the resident nomination, the Town has identified the first of several native species trees of significant community importance located within the Town owned cemeteries. These trees include a 95 cm American Basswood (Tilia americana) in the Fonthill Cemetery, recognized for its size, longevity, and ecological benefits, as well as two Black Oaks (Quercus velutina) in Hillside Cemetery, measuring 66 cm and 118 cm in diameter. Together, these trees stand as living landmarks, contributing to Pelham’s natural heritage, providing critical habitat, and enhancing the landscape of these community spaces.

“This program allows Pelham to showcase the trees that help create the legacy that the tree canopy can provide for residents,” said David Cribbs, Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Pelham. “By preserving these trees, the Town is making a continued commitment to protect biodiversity, support conservation and recognize the lasting impact trees have for the residents of Pelham.”

Launched in July 2025, Protecting Pelham’s Trees was identified as a priority in the Town’s Strategic Plan and reflects Council’s commitment to sustainability, and environmental responsibility. The program also includes the Plant a Tree Pledge, encouraging residents to commit to planting new trees to support Pelham’s long-term canopy health.

Residents are encouraged to participate by nominating trees of personal, cultural, or ecological importance located on their property, or by taking the Plant a Tree Pledge.

For full details, nomination forms, information on National Tree Day and the Plant a Tree Pledge, visit www.pelham.ca/trees.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Leah Letford, Communications Specialist | 905-980-6653 | lletford@pelham.ca