Volunteers plant hundreds of trees in push to grow Calgary’s urban canopy
Posted Jun 5, 2026 2:37 pm.
Hundreds of new trees were planted at a northeast Calgary park on Thursday as the city ramps up efforts to expand its urban canopy.
The community event at Winston Heights Park drew more than 60 volunteers, part of a broader initiative led by Trees for Life and partners to boost tree coverage across the city.
The planting builds on a successful pilot last year at West Nose Creek Park, where 2,000 trees were added. This year’s goal is even more ambitious, with organizers planning to plant 1,400 trees citywide as Calgary works toward long‑term climate and canopy‑growth targets.
More than 60 volunteers turned out at Winston Heights Park, including many first‑timers.
“I really like sitting in nature sometimes, because sometimes I feel relaxed when I go outside,” said young volunteer Samuel Elizondo.
Mike Hurley, development director with Trees for Life, said the organization is planting 300 trees at the site, with another 300 to 400 planned next week and 700 more this fall.
“The idea is to help the City of Calgary double their urban tree canopy over the course of the next few years,” he said.
Other volunteers said the event offered a meaningful way to support the community.
“I just think it’s a great opportunity to give back to the community and build a wonderful park for the city to enjoy,” said Ashley.
City officials say public involvement will be essential as Calgary works to increase tree coverage across parks, boulevards, and private land. Urban forestry superintendent Alan Joiner said the city hopes to grow canopy coverage from just under 10 per cent to 16 per cent by 2060.
The next community planting event is scheduled for June 11 at West Nose Creek Park.
