Summer Environmental and Sustainability Specialist hired with Federal Funding Support

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 17, 2025

Pelham, ON – The Town of Pelham is pleased to announce that it was awarded funding through the Green Jobs Initiative, funded by the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) program, through Parks Canada, in collaboration with the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA). This funding made it possible for the Town to hire a dedicated Environmental and Sustainability Specialist this past summer, a student position focused on advancing key environmental priorities while providing valuable environmental stewardship and hands-on learning opportunities for the student.

The Environmental and Sustainability Specialist position was created to support municipal eco-initiatives and special projects, including surveying all stormwater management ponds and identifying locations of invasive species such as Phragmites, aiding in the Town’s long-term invasive species management strategies. In addition, the position worked alongside the Town’s horticultural staff to design and maintain sustainable garden beds, learning about native plant selection, soil conditions, and seasonal care. Collaborating with ISA-certified arborists, the Specialist also supported the ongoing care of Pelham’s tree canopy through tree planting, pruning, and ongoing maintenance efforts.

“This funding allowed the Town to provide a meaningful work experience for a young professional while making tangible progress on environmental priorities,” said Town of Pelham CAO, David Cribbs. “The Environmental and Sustainability Specialist position mapping work will have a measurable impact as the Town has specific data that will enable informed decisions to support the future health of Pelham’s natural assets.”

The creation of this summer role directly supported the Town of Pelham’s Strategic Plan focus area of Environmental & Climate Adaptation. By prioritizing actions that protect and conserve natural heritage and resources, Pelham is building a clean, safe, and sustainable environment for current and future generation, strengthening its role as a committed steward of the environment.

This project was funded by the Government of Canada's Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) program, through Parks Canada. The Town of Pelham gratefully acknowledges the support of CPRA and the Government of Canada.

-30-

For media inquiries, please contact:

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