The tree canopy in Maple Ridge is expanding, as the city celebrates the completion of its 1,000 Trees project.
The city actually exceeded its goal by planting 1,500 new trees on boulevards and in parks across the community.
Funded through the Government of Canada’s $2 billion Trees Program, and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Growing Canada’s Community Canopies initiative, the 1,000 Trees project was also supported by the city. It focuses on expanding the urban tree canopy in neighbourhoods identified as priorities for increased tree cover.
“We set out to plant 1,000 trees and ended up planting 1,500, and are grateful for the federal funding to support the work,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “We focused on neighbourhoods with less tree cover and tree species, so more people can benefit from shade, cleaner air, and greener streets.”
The Urban Forest Management Plan is the city’s 20-year strategy to protect and expand Maple Ridge’s urban forest and achieve a 40 per cent tree canopy target in urban areas by 2050. The newly planted trees will provide long-term benefits including urban cooling, air and water filtration, stormwater interception, and improved habitat for biodiversity.
The city planted 80 different tree species, including ornamental, shade, flowering, and evergreen trees. Staff arborists strategically selected tree species and locations based on local infrastructure, existing vegetation, and boulevard design to support long-term health and neighbourhood fit. Priority was given to boulevards with sidewalks, curb and gutter, and street lighting, where trees are less likely to be affected by future frontage upgrades.
Planting focused on neighbourhoods with lower overall tree canopy, including Hammond, West Maple Ridge, the Town Centre, and Central Maple Ridge, as well as replacement trees in other parts of the city where street trees had previously been removed. Many trees were also added to parks, improving canopy cover and increasing access to shade for more residents throughout Maple Ridge.
As part of its ongoing commitment to urban forest management, the city is updating its Tree Protection and Management Bylaw. The proposed changes reflect community feedback and aim to better protect mature trees, clarify removal and replacement requirements, modernize permitting, and strengthen compliance.
With nearly half of the community’s tree canopy on private land, the proposed bylaw takes a balanced approach that recognizes the different needs of homeowners and development applicants.
Residents who would like to request a new street tree can submit a request through the city’s Street Tree Request Form at MapleRidge.ca/StreetTrees. Requested locations will be reviewed and assessed for suitability as part of future planting projects.
Learn more about the 1000 Trees project at MapleRidge.ca/1000Trees.