FAQs

The Community Forest includes all publicly and privately-owned trees and forests and supporting vegetation in the municipality.  

The Community Forest includes more than Brant's natural areas. Individual trees and groups of trees along streets, in backyards, parks, cemeteries and commercial areas within Brant’s boundary are also part of the community forest.

A healthy Community Forest:

• Cleans the air and improves water quality
• Reduces flooding and cools urban areas
• Supports local wildlife and biodiversity
• Boosts mental and physical well-being
• Increases property values and beautifies neighbourhoods
• Encourages outdoor recreation and tourism

We all know that trees are important. Trees are often called “green infrastructure” because they provide many valuable ecosystem services. These services include improving air and water quality, mitigating and controlling flooding, beautifying neighbourhoods, reducing energy use, providing habitat for wildlife, and providing recreation opportunities.  Trees live a long time and need to be carefully planned for and managed. That is why Brant is developing a comprehensive plan for its publicly owned forests which is inclusive of outreach and stewardship by all residents.

The strategy may shape how trees are managed on public lands like streets, parks, and trails - and may also influence how trees are preserved during development or on private properties. It aims to support a greener, healthier community for everyone.

Your feedback will help guide the direction of the strategy. It will be used to identify priorities, shape goals, and make sure the final plan reflects the needs and values of our community.

We’re inviting feedback from the general public, Indigenous communities, environmental organizations, developers, and other community groups. Everyone has a role to play in protecting and growing our Community Forest.

The Community Forest Strategy supports broader County goals related to climate action, sustainable growth, parks and recreation, and overall community well-being.

Yes. The County’s Engineering and Development Standards require developers to plant one tree in front of every lot, plus two trees along the sides of corner lots. If utilities prevent tree planting on a specific lot, developers must provide compensation so that trees can be planted elsewhere—like in nearby parks.

Yes. The County offers a subsidized tree planting program twice a year to help residents plant trees on their property. The next opportunity to register will be in August, with trees delivered in September.

Last year, the County pruned over400 trees along both urban streets and rural roadsides to help keep our tree canopy healthy and safe.