Cornwall Ontario — Mayor Bob Kilger joined with Parks and Recreation Staff on Monday morning for a celebratory tree planting to help mark Earth Day.

A sugar maple tree was planted on Bedford Street beside the Memorial Park Cenotaph. The tree was planted near an ash tree that could eventually be destroyed by the emerald ash borer, an invasive species that attacks and kills all native species of ash trees.

At this time, there are no confirmed reports of emerald ash borer in Cornwall or SD & G, however there is a strong likelihood that it will eventually appear in the area. EAB does not pose a risk to human health.

The City of Cornwall has begun to prepare for the arrival of the emerald ash borer in the community. Parks and Recreation staff is monitoring the situation closely while also working to raise awareness about the threat posed by this invasive species.

For more information on the emerald ash borer, please visit the City website.

The Earth Day tree planting was just one small gesture in the City’s efforts to build and maintain a healthy tree inventory.

Last year, the City had 105 trees planted on municipally-owned property, and more trees are expected to be planted this fall.

Pictured at the tree planting are (from left) Horticulturist Wayne Lauzon, Mayor Bob Kilger, Planning, Parks & Recreation General Manager Stephen Alexander, Parks & Recreation Division Manager Christine Lefebvre and Parks Sub-Foreman Wayne Potter.