Administered by the WA Local Government Association, the funding will be used to increase tree canopy cover across a number of parks and reserves in Forrestfield, High Wycombe and Wattle Grove.

Mayor Margaret Thomas said the funding, which covers an 18-month period to June 2022, complements the City’s $150,000 annual urban tree program.

“We’re thrilled with the additional support and can’t wait to roll out the planting program that will see an additional 283 advanced native trees at Lincoln Park, Edinburgh Reserve, Connaught St Reserve and Crumpet Creek in Forrestfield and Willow Lake Reserve in Wattle Grove,” Cr Thomas aid. “A further 80 ornamental species will be planted at Foxton Park, High Wycombe.”

Once complete, local communities will benefit from more than 18,000 square meters of additional shade that will help to reduce local ambient air temperatures and create more liveable spaces for residents.

“The City has identified areas that will gain a lot from the targeted planting both now and into the future with a key focus on improving the City’s urban biodiversity,” Cr Thomas said.

“We know that increasing canopy cover in urban areas will result in significant social, health and economic benefits including cleaner air, increased neighbourhood desirability, improved exercise and social interaction opportunities and the added bonus of improving native animal habitat for our local fauna.”

The City has a long history of showcasing significant regard for the environment and continues to champion environmental protection and enhancement of City managed assets.

Working closely with the Kalamunda Environmental Advisory Committee, the City has progressed and developed four key environmental oriented strategies - Environmental Land Use Planning Strategy, Local Environment Strategy, Draft Biodiversity Strategy and the Draft Urban Forrest Strategy - each offering an array of actions that seek to protect, expand and enhance the City’s natural environment.

Over the last 22 years, the City has given away more than 220,000 plants through its Plants for Residents program. This year’s plant collection day was Saturday, 29 May 2021 at the Woodlupine Family and Community Centre, Forrestfield with 13,000 native plants handed out to residents.

Find more information on the City’ commitment to the environment including local programs, projects and initiatives here or call (08) 9257 9999.