Malaspina Land Conservancy Society

Over the past two years, more than 4,300 Douglas fir seedlings have been planted around the qathet region through a project called Ted Talks Through Trees. The project continues in 2022, and each year a large portion of the seedlings have been donated through PRT Growing Services Ltd. on Vancouver Island.

With the passing of our board member, Ted Crossley, an idea was born to honour him through a project to increase the number of trees in the Powell River region.

Ted often spoke about trees, and nurtured the trees on his own property, finding solace within their presence.

Our long-time board member, Lesley, envisioned an evening fundraiser at Little Hut Curry. With Mohinder’s help, the restaurant was sold out and those who gathered did so to support the purchase of seedlings that would be planted in the spring 2020 on private properties throughout the region.

Trees provide great habitat for wildlife, shade and cooler temperatures during the summer and warmth during the winter. They are carbon sinks, and refresh the air we breathe. They mitigate stormwater runoff by using the water saturating soils for growth. They provide stability on uneven ground and a canopy allowing the forest floor to flourish.

We selected species indigenous to this area that can adapt to a changing climate and are easily maintained.

The 2020 season of tree planting was a great success. We purchased 500 seedlings and received 1,660 more donated through PRT. And so, emboldened, we did it all again in 2021. This time we brought 2,160 into the region for planting, all donated by PRT. We are very grateful for our relationship with PRT Growing Services, Ltd. Headquartered in Victoria, with a branch in Campbell River, our main contact Suzanne has been a strong connection across the water, helping us build a strong forest family.

Now we are in 2022 and we are doing it again. We have purchased 500, and will receive 1,260 donated through PRT. By the end of spring, that means more than 6,000 trees will have been planted in the area through this project. So, if you would like to receive some Douglas fir seedlings to plant on your private land, please contact us at lthorsell@yahoo.com.

This year we are asking for a donation of funds from those wishing to plant. It is easy to donate. You can do so through this website, or by e-transfer to info@malaspinaland.ca. Any donation over $20 receives a charitable tax receipt, and we are asking for a minimum donation of $5. Thank you!