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City brings back tree voucher program designed to boost urban canopy

Oct 5, 2018 | 6:14 PM

NANAIMO — A wildly popular program designed to boost the number of trees on private property in Nanaimo is back.

The City is offering $20 vouchers which can be redeemed at Green Thumb Garden Centre for a tree worth up to $75.

The program was first introduced in April 2017 and proved almost too popular. A massive lineup stretched out of Bowen Park and the vouchers sold out in minutes, leaving many upset residents.

Another, better planned version of the promotion earlier this year saw people again lined up around the block and vouchers sold out in hours.

“Trees in a city provide many social, economic and environmental benefits. A healthy urban forest canopy provides critical habitat for wildlife, reduces the impacts of global warming, provides storm water abatement, increases property values and helps define the character of the city,” said Patrick McIntosh, the City’s urban forestry coordinator.

As of Friday, Oct. 5 the City said roughly 100 vouchers were still available on a first come, first serve basis during business hours at the Service and Resource Centre at 411 Dunsmuir St. Vouchers will be limited to two per property, per year and available for owners of properties within the City of Nanaimo only. Proof of residency or photo ID may be required.

 

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