Scott Young Public School in Omemee is growing a greener future, with 17 large trees planted on National Tree Day, September 23, 2026.
The project was recently featured in Kawartha Lakes Weekly, highlighting the community partnerships bringing new shade, habitat, and outdoor learning opportunities to the schoolyard.
A $10,000 Tree Canada Greening School Grounds grant, supported by Northbridge, helped make the project possible. Carissa Ferguson, Operations & Engagement Manager at the Kawartha Community Foundation and a member of the school’s parent council, led the grant application. Local partners Pine Needle Farm and Green Side Up Environmental Services helped supply and establish the trees.
The planting reflects the work of Plant Kawartha, led by Richard and Sandi Gauder, to connect community support with local environmental projects.
As the trees mature, they will offer welcome shade for students and create new places to observe nature. Students can also take an active role in caring for their schoolyard through the Wish Tree Watering Program, which connects their hopes for the future with hands-on tree care.
An upcoming shrub planting component will add opportunities to explore plant identification, seasonal changes, and wildlife habitat.
Thank you to the funders, planting partners, volunteers, and school community who helped bring this project to life—and to Kawartha Lakes Weekly reporter Robyn Best for sharing the story.
Read “New trees take root at Omemee school” in Kawartha Lakes Weekly
Interested in a planting project at your school? Contact Carissa Ferguson at carissa@kawarthafoundation.ca, or Richard and Sandi Gauder at info@plantkawartha.ca.
