Q - What tree species should I plant after the Emerald Ash Borer has killed Ash trees on my property?
A -  The tree and shrub species you should plant vary based on your location. The Government of Ontario has a great online tree atlas you can access to find which tree species work for shoreline areas on Lake Huron!  You can access this atlas here
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Q - Trees on my shoreline are washing away from the high lake levels! What should I do?
A -  There was a period of extended low-lake levels between 2000 and 2013, and now again, water levels have been decreasing since a period of high water levels in 2020-2021. During these times with low water levels, plants and trees 'creep' out closer to the water's edge and grow without being taken away by lake storms. In years with high water levels, many of the trees, shrubs, and plants were pulled out of the shoreline by storm waves. You may have experienced this phenomenon in 2020-2021, and it is completely normal. However, if during high water levels, there are trees that are at risk of causing harm to person or property, check with your local Conservation Authority and Municipality before removing them to get the proper permits. Some areas of Lake Huron's shores have shoreline tree preservation bylaws in place.
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Q - I want to plant trees but I don't know where I should buy them and what grants are available?
 A - Conservation Authorities across the coast have amazing tree planting programs where you can purchase native, healthy large trees or seedlings for very good prices. Their tree planting programs typically run in the Spring and Autumn seasons. Check with your local Conservation Authority before the end of January to place an order for trees, which will arrive in March/April every spring, or late Autumn. Many grants and financial incentive programs exist to help cover            the costs of planting large areas, windbreaks, and other projects on private lands.