Winnipeg ReLeaf program helps homeowners replace trees lost to Dutch elm

A new grant aims to give Winnipeg homeowners the chance to replace trees lost to Dutch elm disease.

Tree Canada and TD Friends of the Environment Foundation have given the City of Winnipeg $20,000 to fund the Winnipeg ReLeaf program this year.

The program will provide 700 homeowners with subsidized tree replacement packages, workshops, technical support with planting and a followup visit to check on the tree.

"The Winnipeg ReLeaf program will help property owners replace many of these trees and create awareness about the importance of tree species diversity to the health of Winnipeg's urban forest," Lukes said in a City of Winnipeg news release.

To register for the Winnipeg ReLeaf program this summer visit the Save the Elms website.

Each subsidized tree replacement package will costs$55 but is valued at $150. Homeowners can choose among four different tree packages:

• Hackberry tree (a tree similar in stature to American elms).
• Birds and blooms collection (includes littleleaf linden and Juliet cherry).
• Manitoba treasures collection (includes bur oak and smokey saskatoon).
• Space-saver fall colours collection (includes Dakota pinnacle birch and Amur maple).

Workshops and tree distribution will take place in September,said the city.