Maple Ridge invites residents to celebrate National Tree Day at Volker Park

The City of Maple Ridge is inviting residents to celebrate National Tree Day on Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the newly upgraded Volker Park, 21131 123 Avenue. Residents of all ages can join neighbours, city staff and local organizations for activities highlighting trees, green spaces and a healthy urban forest.

The event will include planting new trees and spring-flowering bulbs, crafts, a food truck, face painting, a pollinator plant giveaway and interactive displays. The city’s tree contractor will offer bucket-truck rides to view the park from above, and participants can meet city teams involved in planning, maintaining and protecting Maple Ridge’s green spaces. Residents are encouraged to walk or cycle where possible.

The event supports the city’s ongoing Urban Forest Management Plan and Resilient Future 2050 climate action plan. The city says trees provide shade, help manage rainwater, improve air quality, support wildlife and make neighbourhoods more welcoming and resilient.

Residents can request a street tree for the boulevard in front of their property where site conditions allow, at MapleRidge.ca/StreetTrees. Adopted in July 2024, the Urban Forest Management Plan provides a 20-year framework for protecting, maintaining and expanding the city’s urban forest; more information is available at MapleRidge.ca/UrbanForestManagementPlan. Resilient Future 2050 identifies 58 actions to reduce emissions, prepare for climate impacts and strengthen community resilience; details are available at MapleRidge.ca/ClimateAction. Questions about city tree initiatives can be directed to UrbanForestry@MapleRidge.ca.