Ottawa’s inaugural “tree equity analysis” has pinpointed eight neighborhoods in dire need of more greenery, with one councilor expressing optimism about the city’s upcoming tree-planting initiatives.
Alta Vista Councilor Marty Carr, the vice-chair of Ottawa’s environment and climate change committee, welcomed the focus on addressing these areas. She highlighted the potential for strategic tree planning in conjunction with new developments to enhance tree coverage and community involvement.
Tree equity advocates for equal access to trees across all city neighborhoods. Research by Nature Canada reveals that lower-income and racially diverse Canadian neighborhoods tend to have fewer trees compared to wealthier areas.
In Ottawa, a 2017 assessment showed that a $10,000 decrease in neighborhood median income correlates with a four percent reduction in tree cover. Trees offer numerous benefits, including cooler temperatures and improved health outcomes.
The tree equity analysis assigns each neighborhood a score between 0 and 100 based on tree canopy cover and demographic, health, and socioeconomic data. A lower score indicates inadequate tree coverage to meet residents’ needs.
City staff conducted the analysis to identify and support the most inequitable neighborhoods. Among the eight priority neighborhoods, four are earmarked for immediate action with tree planting scheduled for 2026 and 2027.
Councilor Carr noted the lack of consistent tree coverage in her ward’s identified action areas, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to boost tree canopy cover. Community engagement is crucial, especially in neighborhoods with lower scores on the equity index.
City staff will collaborate with local stakeholders in priority areas to ensure trees are planted where they are most valued and required. This neighborhood-level approach is vital for delivering direct health benefits through improved access to trees.
The city aims to achieve a 40 percent tree canopy cover citywide, but many wards fall short of this target. Challenges, including storm damage and delayed reports, have hindered progress, necessitating a renewed focus on enhancing tree coverage and equity.
As of 2022, Ottawa’s overall canopy cover remains stable at 36 percent, with urban areas experiencing a slight decline. Reforestation efforts and tree growth have mitigated losses, while rural areas have seen an increase in canopy cover despite various challenges.
City staff will present the findings from both reports to the environment and climate change committee on Sept. 16, underscoring the importance of ongoing efforts to promote tree equity and enhance urban green spaces.