Greenbelt Foundation

When it comes to dealing with #ExtremeWeather events, managing natural assets such as wetlands, forests, and rivers is more crucial than ever. Protecting and enhancing our existing natural infrastructure is key to building climate resilience in our communities. 💧🌞 In 2023, the Greenbelt Foundation supported two projects in muncipalities that are taking innovative steps to protect and enhance the natural infrastructure that keeps their communities safe. The Town of Lincoln is working to improve stormwater management, mitigate urban flood risks, and increase climate resiliency through the creation and protection of urban tree canopy installations in Jordan Village, a #Greenbelt Settlement Area. The Town of Pelham is developing a comprehensive Municipal Natural Asset Management Plan that will identify natural assets in Pelham's Greenbelt area that can help strengthen their community against climate change.

As we see more extreme weather here in Ontario and around the world, it’s a good time to appreciate just how important our natural spaces are! The #ONGreenbelt is like nature's superhero, helping protect us from things like flooding and heatwaves. Think of it as a giant sponge, soaking up extra rainwater and keeping flood risks at bay. Plus, all that tree cover works like a natural air conditioner, helping to cool things down when the heat cranks up. With the weather getting wilder, the Greenbelt is more important than ever. This year’s extreme weather events are a stark reminder of why preserving and protecting the #Greenbelt is more important than ever. Let’s keep it thriving so it can keep us safe!🌳💚

Today, we're highlighting one of the #Greenbelt's iconic #nativetrees: the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)! 🍁 Known for its vibrant fall colors and sweet sap, the Sugar Maple is a cornerstone of our natural landscapes. These trees can be found in many parts of the Greenbelt, like the forests of the Niagara Escarpment. Not only do they provide stunning autumn scenery, but they also support local wildlife and play a crucial role in maintaining forest health. Whether you're hiking through Bruce Peninsula National Park or exploring the trails in Halton Region, keep an eye out for these iconic trees! 🌲💚

August 27th is Soil Management Day! Please join us at Sunderland Co-Op Farm to gain practical experiences, connect with fellow farmers, and enhance your soil management skills! To learn more and register, visit: https://lnkd.in/eahr3bjY

🌳🌿 Planting #NativeTrees plays a crucial role in enhancing climate resilience. These trees are specially adapted to local conditions, which means they are better equipped to thrive in our specific climate and soil types. By increasing natural cover with native species, we can help manage stormwater more effectively, as their root systems absorb excess water and reduce the risk of flooding. Native trees also provide shade and cool the air, significantly lowering urban temperatures and combating the urban heat island effect. This cooling effect not only makes our cities more comfortable but also reduces energy consumption for air conditioning, further contributing to climate resilience. By integrating native trees into our landscapes, we are actively preparing our communities to withstand and adapt to the impacts of climate change, creating a more sustainable and livable environment for all!

#DYK that the Greenbelt Foundation has a 1 Million Trees Program? 🌳 Last year we hit the incredible milestone of 500,000 thousand trees planted! In partnership with organizations like Conservation Ontario, Forest Ontario and Green Communities Canada we’ve been able to expand #greencover across the Greenbelt by planting native trees. Planting native trees in the is more than just a beautification effort—it's a crucial step towards restoring and preserving our natural ecosystems! 🌿 #Nativetrees play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity, supporting local wildlife, and ensuring ecological balance. They’re adapted to our climate and soil, which makes them more resilient and better suited to thrive in our environment. By choosing native species, we help create a healthier, more sustainable landscape that benefits all. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gF-FM3aZ

Join us on Soil Management Day at Sunderland Co-Op Farm for a day of hands-on learning and expert insights into soil health and sustainable farming practices. You’ll get the chance to develop a tangible soil health management plan for your farm and connect with fellow farmers and industry leaders! 🌱🧑🌾 Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness | Agriculture, Alimentation et Agroentreprise Date: Tuesday, August 27th, 2024 Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Location: Sutherland Co-Op Farm To learn more and register, visit the link below: https://lnkd.in/eahr3bjY

🍑 Peach Paradise in the #OntarioGreenbelt! 🍑 August is the perfect time to indulge in one of the sweetest treats the Ontario Greenbelt has to offer: peaches! These juicy gems are at their peak right now, and there's no better place to get them than from the lush orchards in the #NiagaraRegion. The Niagara Peninsula, known for its fertile soil and ideal climate, is home to some of the best peach orchards in the region. Here, dedicated farmers grow a variety of peach cultivars, ensuring that you get the freshest and most flavorful peaches possible. Whether you're planning to make a mouth-watering peach cobbler, or just enjoy them fresh off the tree, these Niagara-grown peaches are sure to delight your taste buds. #SummerFruit #EatLocal

August is #FruitSeason in the Ontario Greenbelt! August is a wonderful time to savor the delicious fruits that are in peak season in the Ontario Greenbelt. Whether you're visiting a local farmers' market or picking your own, you'll find a variety of fresh, juicy options to enjoy. Here's what's in season this month: 🍑 Peaches: Perfectly sweet and juicy, they're ideal for snacking, baking, or making preserves. 🫐Blueberries: Bursting with antioxidants, they're great in smoothies, salads, or simply by the handful. 🍇Grapes: Crisp and refreshing, they make a fantastic healthy snack. 🍏Apples: The first varieties of the season are here, ready to crunch! Supporting local farmers by purchasing these fruits helps sustain our agricultural communities, a cornoerstone of the Greenbelt economy. Plus, there's nothing like the taste of freshly picked, locally-grown produce! Head to your nearest farmers' market to enjoy the bounty of August and celebrate the flavors of the season!

Looking for a fun August activity? Take a trip to one of the many farmers markets in and around the #Greenbelt and experience the vibrant locally-grown produce. From juicy peaches and crisp apples to artisanal cheeses and farm-fresh eggs, these markets have something for everyone! Don't miss the St. Jacobs Farmers' Market in Waterloo Region, one of Canada's largest year-round markets, and the Evergreen Brick Works Farmers' Market in Toronto, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and local agriculture. Both markets feature an array of Greenbelt-grown fruits and vegetables! Supporting these markets means supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture. 🌿👩🌾 Find your nearest market, grab your reusable bags, and enjoy a day filled with community spirit, tasty treats, and the best produce that summer has to offer. See you there! 🌞🥕🛒