Agriculture and Forestry Minister Mitch Murphy presented Kiara Kimberley Labobe and her mother Michelle MacLean of Charlottetown with the first seedling given out as part of the Department's Red Oak Seedlings for Island New Borns program. Kiara was born on May 12, 2001 at the Q.E.H. in Charlottetown.
This program was launched to mark the millennium and the 50th anniversary of Prince Edward Island's first forest service. Red Oak was selected because it is the Island's Provincial Tree and represents growth, strength, and longevity. Special certificates are being distributed by Welcome Wagon through the Baby Welcome Program entitling parents to pick up a free red oak seedling to mark the special occasion. Each certificate has an area to mount a 4 X 6 photo of the tree planting, as well as planting instructions and a brief overview of the importance of Red Oak to Prince Edward Island.
These special Red Oak seedlings are available in May and June through the Forestry offices in Southampton and Wellington and at the J. Frank Gaudet Tree Nursery in West Royalty. Parents should call the appropriate office ahead of time to ensure that supplies are in stock and bring their certificate with them when they come to pick up the seedling.
As well, for anyone who lives in an apartment or other area where tree planting may not be suitable, the Department has set aside several special planting areas. These Provincial Forests sites are convenient, accessible areas where parents and children can plant their seedling and be assured that it will be protected as it grows and develops over the years.
For more information on the Red Oak Seedlings for Island New Borns program, contact the Natural Resources Information Officer at 902 368 6450.