Transform the Lawn

Nature-based solutions are key to Grey County’s Climate Change Action Plan. The naturalization of this property is a small but symbolic step forward in Grey County’s commitment to climate action and meeting our greenhouse gas net-zero community target by 2050. Going Green in Grey also sets the target of planting 5 million trees by 2050.

A key partner in this project is NeighbourWoods North, a local community volunteer group dedicated to climate action through urban forestry. The initial plan for the Grey County property included planting approximately 20 trees, two pollinator gardens, and exploring a future rain garden. You can learn more about NeighbourWoods North and support their work at www.neighbourwoodsnorth.com.

Since 2022, the County has hosted several community work bees that provide an opportunity for the community to join in tree planting, learning about stewardship and connection with the land, and celebration of local climate action. The first planting event, hosted in September 2022, opened with an Indigenous teaching on the importance of stewardship and connection with the land, our local environment, and each other.

• In 2022, Grey County hosted the first planting event where ~30 volunteers planted 20 young trees.  
• In 2023, 35 volunteers participated in two planting events, resulting in a new rain garden and pollinator garden. 
• In 2024, Grey County hosted three work bees with 30 volunteers planted 11 fruit trees planted, companion plants, and prepared the site for next phase. 
• In 2025, there were two work bees with 20 volunteers, planting 16 trees. 

Since 2022, Grey County and community volunteers have planted 47 trees and many more native plants and shrubs. 

• Volunteer with a community tree planting project through a local community group, such as Neighbourwoods North or The Sustainability Project.
• Start incorporating native pollinator plants and trees into your yard!
• Source native plants from the Inglis Falls Arboretum & Nursery, non-profit, volunteer run nursery located in Owen Sound or check out the Sustainability Asset Map to find other local suppliers near you.

Help us plant 5 million trees by 2050 through the following tree planting programs: 

• Participate in the Living Snow Fence Program - Grey County is looking to partner with landowners to grow fences in high-need areas to help keep snow off the road.
• Check out tree planting programs from your local conservation authority:
  • Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
  • Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
  • Grand River Conservation Authority Tree Planting
  • Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority
• Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program - Ministry of Natural Resource and Forestry (MNRF), offers a 75% reduction in property taxes for landowners with at least 4 hectares (9.88 acres) of forested land on their property.