The District of Squamish has received a $15,000 grant from the Province of BC’s PlanH program for a tree canopy study in Downtown Squamish. District is partnering with OurSquamish on this local project.
Funded by the Ministry of Health and administered by BC Healthy Communities, the PlanH program supports local and Indigenous governments to create healthier communities through resources, practices and learning opportunities that focus on people, society and the environment.
In a press release, District said it plans to use the funding to conduct a study downtown to understand the status and value of urban tree canopy in the neighbourhood with a focus on equitable access to green space among residents. The study will provide recommendations to increase retention and encourage urban tree canopy as well as guide the District’s development of a long-term urban forest strategy for Squamish. An Urban Forest Management Strategy is expected to be proposed to Council in the 2024-2028 Financial Plan.
The District was one of 33 municipalities to receive a portion of the total $250,000 available in funding.
An urban tree coverage can help fight against the effects of climate change by capturing and storing carbon, district says, while supporting biodiversity and offering food and shelter for wildlife. An urban tree canopy can also absorb rainwater, stabilizes soils, lower ambient air temperatures and provides refuge from heat and UV while improving the health and well-being of residents.
