A tree planting project recently completed in this community demonstrates how like-minded groups can partner to improve their local environment.
Building upon previous community development initiatives in the area, the Grand Tracadie Home and School Association and the Winter River Environmental Committee have worked together to complete a tree planting project at the Grand Tracadie school along Route 6. The trees were sourced through the Highway Naturalization Program of the Department of Transportation and Public Works.
"This project demonstrates that no matter what the project size, communities and interested groups that want to partner to enhance their local roadways can utilize the Highway Naturalization Program to do just that," said Transportation and Public Works Minister Don MacKinnon.
The project involved volunteers from the Winter River Environmental Committee planting approximately 150 trees along the roadway and school. Tree varieties planted included Linden, Red Oak, Willow, White Cedar, Norway Spruce, Red Maple, and Austrian Pine. "It was great to work with the home and school association and the province on this project which will benefit the area," said Gary Fournier of the Winter River Environmental Committee.
Among the long-term benefits from the project are providing a barrier to keep children and their play equipment away from the roadway and on school property, enhancing general air quality in the area, and serving as a windbreak.
The project will also contribute to the ongoing beautification of the area underway since 1999 under the leadership of the Grand Tracadie Home & School Association's "Green Space/Play Space" committee. "Our community has been working hard over the last three years at developing the area around the school and Route 6. By partnering with the Winter River Environmental Committee, we were able to utilize the Highway Naturalization Program to help accomplish that goal," said Arne Youngerman of the Grand Tracadie Home & School Association.
Another possible benefit of the project is an "Adopt a Tree" program under consideration for the fall where students would learn about the ecology of trees by caring for the trees planted.
Tracadie-Fort Augustus MLA Mildred Dover applauded the community spirit shown by the project. "Small schools are at the very heart of communities like Grand Tracadie. I'm very pleased that interested groups have been able to partner to further enhance this area," said Dover.
Future Highway Naturalization projects will be determined by the level of community interest and the availability of resources. Interested communities and groups can learn more about sponsoring a Highway Naturalization Project in their area by contacting their local community development officer or the Community Development Bureau at 368-6360.