Trent Massey recognized as a Green Leader after planting new forest

ECHO BAY, ON, Jan. 16, 2018 /CNW/ – Trent Massey was a farmer raising cows, chickens, pigs and goats in Echo Bay, Ontario. For that’s home of The Big Loonie. But when he had to pack the business in and sell his livestock, he and his wife were left wondering what to do with their sprawling 30 acres of land.

When Trent was introduced to Forests Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program (50MTP). For then things fell into place. 50MTP is also a province-wide program. It therefore provides funding support and technical assistance to landowners wishing to plant trees.

Tree Planting

Tree planting can also add substantial value to land, which is one of many reasons Forests Ontario say farmers should consider planting trees on their properties. “We commend Trent for diversifying his farm and planting trees,” says Rob Keen, CEO at Forests Ontario. “Those trees will help to sequester carbon and improve the quality of the soil, air and water on Trent’s property.”

Trent also worked with Brent Atwell of REGEN Forestry. For that’s Forests Ontario planting partner. Moreover to conduct two plantings on his property.

Trent also requested to have hands-on involvement from start to finish. He furthermore prepared the land himself. From plowing the fields and also tilling the soil. Although it is not necessary for a landowner to physically take part, Trent recommends those involved with 50MTP to, “get out there and do what they can. It’s great to actually take ownership of the trees and feel like you’ve contributed.”

White spruce, Jack pine, White cedar, Norway spruce, and Poplar were all planted—an impressive total of 5,500 trees in all. This mix of species will serve several purposes on Trent’s land; from creating a windbreak around the perimeter of the property, providing privacy and creating habitat for wildlife.

Trent’s relationship with Brent, and his keen interest in forestry, landed him a job with REGEN Forestry.

He is now the Resource Manager with the organization, a role he enthusiastically enjoys.  This new career path has been a blessing for Trent, and he is excited to become more involved in the world of forestry.

Trent is recognized as a Green Leader, an award which recognizes individuals for their commitment to tree planting and land stewardship.

Planting trees all through the 50 Million Tree Program. For it will also help to sequester carbon. Furthermore enhance and diversify Ontario’s landscape, increase the capacity to withstand climate change, and contribute to wildlife habitat. For more information on the 50 Million Tree Program, contact Forests Ontario at 416-646-1193, or visit www.forestsontario.ca/50MTP.

About 50 Million Tree Program

Forests Ontario administers the government of Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program, part of the United Nations Billion Tree Campaign. The United Nations’ goal is to plant one billion trees worldwide each year. Ontario is committed to planting 50 million trees by 2025.

The 50 Million Tree Program is designed to significantly reduce the costs to landowners of large-scale tree planting and thereby increase the number of trees planted across the province.

About Forests Ontario
In conclusion, Forests Ontario is the voice for our forests. Working to also promote a future of healthy forests sustaining healthy people. For Forests Ontario is committed to the re-greening of Ontario. All through tree planting efforts on rural lands and in urban areas, as well as the renewal and stewardship of Ontario’s forests through restoration, education and awareness. Visit www.forestsontario.ca or follow us @Forests_Ontario.

SOURCE Forests Ontario