Communi-TREE Week

What is biodiversity? 

The term “biodiversity” is an abbreviation for “biological diversity.” The abundance, variety, and variability of living creatures in a given area is reflected in biodiversity. Whereas, “urban biodiversity” refers to the diversity of living species, including genetic differences, as well as the variety of environments found in and surrounding dense human cities.

Everything in nature that we require to life is supported by biodiversity: shade, food, clean water, medicine, and shelter. As humans continue to put pressure on the globe by utilizing and consuming more resources than ever before, we risk endangering the earth’s incredible biodiversity.

Urban forests are constantly threatened by various anthropogenic sources. Habitat loss, non-native species spread, climate change, pollution, and overconsumption all contribute to a fall in the variety of living species and endanger nature as we know it. It is encouraging that Canadians and others around the world are recognizing this problem and taking action.

What can you do to help our urban biodiversity and how to participate in National Forest week?

• Take a walk in woods nearby and get to know your forest
• Arrange a tree planting event or attend one of our events
• Care for a newly planted or neglected tree, and study its species
• Identify all the things at home or school that are made of wood
• Learn about organizations that demonstrate sustainable forest management
• Sign up for our Upcoming Volunteering Opportunities for this week!

Let’s talk about what an “urban forest” is and why Hamilton’s urban forests play a huge role in biological diversity. 

An “urban forest” is a collection of trees or forests located in a city. More widely, it includes urban parks, street trees, landscaped boulevards, gardens, river corridors, wetlands, nature preserves, and working trees. 

​​Biodiversity in urban forests is a fascinating and vital aspect of our urban ecosystems. From towering trees to tiny insects, urban forests provide habitat and sustenance for countless organisms, fostering intricate ecological relationships. The diversity found here not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of cities but also plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. By preserving and nurturing biodiversity in urban forests, we not only protect native species but also bolster the resilience of these vital green spaces, making our cities more sustainable, vibrant, and harmonious places to live.

Trees in a community assist to reduce air and water pollution, change heating and cooling costs, and raise property values. Trees have been linked to improved physical and mental health, stronger social relationships, and lower crime rates. Trees, community gardens, and other green spaces encourage people to get outside, which promotes active living and neighbourhood pride. 

Want to help increase and preserve our urban forest? Check out our Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities!

Today we will talk about the major threats to biodiversity in Urban Forests such as climate change and invasive species.  

Urban forests are vital green lungs within our concrete jungles, offering a multitude of ecological, social, and economic benefits. However, they face an array of threats that jeopardize their existence and the well-being of the communities they serve. One of the foremost concerns is urbanization itself. As cities expand, green spaces often give way to buildings and roads, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. This not only reduces the overall forested area but also isolates plant and animal populations, hindering genetic diversity and making them more susceptible to diseases and pests.

Climate change poses another significant menace to urban forests. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting precipitation patterns can stress trees and make them more vulnerable to diseases and pests. Additionally, invasive species thrive in warmer urban environments, outcompeting native trees and disrupting the delicate balance of these ecosystems. To ensure the health and longevity of our urban forests, it’s imperative that we recognize these threats and take proactive measures such as tree planting, habitat restoration, and sustainable urban planning to safeguard these vital green spaces for generations to come.

What can you do to help Hamilton’s urban forest?

• Join our stewardship event at Morton Park tomorrow on National Tree Day (Wednesday, September 20)!
• Help us plant a mini forest at Windermere Basin Park on Saturday, November 4! 
• Follow us on social media and subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay updated in future events!

Check out our Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities!

It’s National Tree Day! 

Trees provide cultural, spiritual, societal, environmental, and economical benefits and offer green alternatives through innovative products and technology advancements.

Urban forests and trees, often overshadowed by the concrete and steel of cityscapes, quietly bestow a wide array of cultural, spiritual, societal, environmental, and economic advantages upon urban dwellers. Culturally, these green pockets within our bustling cities serve as touchpoints to nature, fostering a deep sense of connection and appreciation for the natural world. They offer a serene escape from the hectic urban life, encouraging introspection and tranquility. Trees have long held symbolic significance in various cultures, representing resilience, growth, and renewal, while also providing spaces for community gatherings, art installations, and cultural celebrations. This cultural and spiritual dimension underscores the vital role urban forests play in enriching our lives beyond the physical.

From a societal perspective, urban forests and trees contribute significantly to the well-being of city residents. They provide shade on scorching summer days, reducing the heat island effect and making urban areas more livable. Cleaner air, courtesy of trees’ capacity to filter pollutants, leads to improved public health, reducing the burden of respiratory diseases. Moreover, these green havens promote physical activity and social cohesion, serving as spaces for recreation, exercise, and social interaction. 

On the environmental front, urban forests are invaluable. They act as carbon sinks, helping mitigate climate change by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide. Additionally, they provide habitat for wildlife and support biodiversity in otherwise highly developed areas. In economic terms, urban forests offer both direct and indirect benefits. Trees increase property values, reduce energy costs through natural cooling, and boost tourism and business in areas with lush greenery. 

Furthermore, advances in technology and innovative products derived from urban trees, such as sustainable construction materials and bioenergy, are opening up new avenues for environmentally friendly urban development. In conclusion, urban forests and trees are far more than just scenic elements; they are the green lungs of our cities, enriching our lives culturally, spiritually, socially, environmentally, and economically while offering sustainable solutions for the future.

To ensure the longevity of these natural wonders, proper tree maintenance is not just an option; it’s a vital necessity. Trees are living organisms that require care and attention to thrive and provide their myriad benefits to our environment and communities.

Regular pruning is a fundamental aspect of tree maintenance. Pruning helps promote healthy growth by removing dead or diseased branches, allowing for better air circulation and sunlight penetration. This practice also enhances a tree’s structural integrity, reducing the risk of branches breaking or falling during storms. Additionally, proper pruning can shape a tree’s canopy, preventing it from becoming overly dense and prone to diseases.

Safeguarding against diseases and pests is another critical component of tree care. Regular inspections by certified arborists can help detect early signs of infestations or infections. Timely intervention, which may include targeted treatments or even the removal of severely affected trees to prevent the spread of diseases, is essential to protect not only the individual tree but also the surrounding ecosystem.

In urban environments, trees often face additional stressors like pollution and compacted soil. Adequate watering and mulching play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges. Trees need consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, to thrive. Mulching not only helps retain soil moisture but also insulates the roots from extreme temperature fluctuations and reduces competition from grass and weeds.

Green Venture, alongside its partners, has been diligently working on nurturing and expanding our urban forest through various tree initiatives, including the Mini Forest Projects, Tree Equity Project, Tree Starting Kit program, and more! 

Join us on Saturday, November 4, for a mini forest tree-planting event at Windermere Basin Park and be a part of this green transformation!

With Communi-TREE almost to an end, we want to share how Green Venture are inspiring young minds to connect with nature, forests, trees, and recognize the significance of Canada’s forest heritage through interactive educational resources and tools such as:

• YouthQuake Program – Join our twice monthly, drop-in, virtual and in person YouthQuake meetings for eco conversations open to all Hamilton youth ages 14-24. Recent topics have included waste, consumerism, fast fashion, food choices, and more. The conversations are youth-led, and guided by Green Venture staff; with the occasional opportunity for guest speakers in the environmental field to share their expertise!
• Youth Stewardship Program – Hamilton high school students over the age of 14 are invited to join our Youth Stewardship and Professional Skills program! In this session’s program, youth projects will focus on Climate Action. Participants will get to complete an environmental project of their choosing and gain valuable job skills. Meetings will be weekly on Wednesdays (virtually or in-person), and each session will earn attendees volunteer hours, with the program offering 20+ volunteer hours. 
• Nature Kids Program – Nature Kids is an after school program that provides opportunities for children aged 5-11 to get outside, engage with nature, and stay active. The fall series will run on Thursdays from September 28 – October 26 from 4:30pm – 6pm. Children in the program are able to be dropped off up to thirty minutes before the start time at each session. 
• Supporting tree planting initiatives on school grounds across Hamilton
• + more!

Nurturing a deep and enduring connection between young minds and the natural world, fostering an appreciation for the intricate ecosystems of forests, the majesty of trees, and a profound understanding of Canada’s rich forest heritage through the use of dynamic and interactive educational resources and tools. These initiatives aim not only to educate but also to ignite a passion for environmental stewardship, equipping the youth with the knowledge and empathy needed to protect our forests and preserve the ecological treasures they hold for future generations.