Tree planting will reduce carbon levels 

Prince Edward Island landowners can help reduce carbon levels in the atmosphere while investing in woodlots.  

Under the new Carbon Capture Tree Planting Program, the provincial government is aiming to return approximately 250 hectares of fields and marginal land to forest cover over the next three years. Private land owners who are interested in planting these types of sites can apply to the program at Carbon Capture Tree Planting Program. 

“Over their lifespan, trees use and store a tremendous amount of carbon and there are many areas across the Island which could be forested to support carbon capture efforts,” said Communities, Land and Environment Minister Richard Brown. “This program will help landowners increase the long-term value of their land while helping mitigate the impacts of climate change.” 

The program is funded through the federal Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund, an integral element of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. The program covers all planting and seedling costs. Participating land owners are also eligible for a one-time Alternate Land Uses Service (ALUS) payment for the planted area as well as additional forest management services offered through the Forest Enhancement Program.   

“Islanders are feeling the effects of climate change. It’s great to see the province taking serious steps to fight climate change by investing in practical solutions,” said Environment and Climate Change Canada Minister Catherine McKenna. “With federal support, Prince Edward Island’s new tree planting program will store carbon and create safe habitats for Island wildlife. Fighting climate change while protecting nature is a win for Prince Edward Island’s environment and for the next generation of Canadians who will inherit a safer and more beautiful Canada.”

The Carbon Capture Tree Planting Program plants suitable native tree species on marginal and grasses sites, including high priority sites such as highly sloped lands, sites with sensitive (erodible) soils, and watershed areas with low forest cover.  Other types of sites may also be considered.

Media contact:
Wayne MacKinnon
(902) 314-3407
wemackinnon@gov.pe.ca