Pickering's green legacy has been further enhanced with the planting of 250 donated trees at Lynn Heights Park. The park was adopted by the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Environment Task Force. Members of the Task Force, along with students from Maple Ridge Public School, volunteered to do the plantings.

              
Photos taken during the planting on Thursday, May 13, 2010  [click any image to enlarge or view our photos on flickr]

The three-year old saplings were purchased as part of a charitable fundraising drive that involved Ontario Ministry of Government Services staff. Rather than simply donating money to charity, the civil service employees wanted to make a living and lasting contribution to Ontario's natural environment. "My colleagues are very pleased that our donation will have a direct, positive and long-term impact on the community and environment,” said Jitka Christof who spearheaded the staff fundraising initiative.

The City of Pickering was thrilled by the offer of 250 donated trees, and quickly identified Lynn Heights Park as the ideal new home for the fledgling white pine, hemlock, bur oak, and black cherry trees. "I wish to thank the Ministry's staff for their significant generosity and commitment to strengthening the environment. I also thank the Board of Trade and Maple Ridge students for their stewardship efforts,” said Mayor Dave Ryan. "I sincerely hope that others will emulate this leadership example. It is these types of partnerships that help strengthen the fabric of our community.”

Lynn Heights Park is located off of Lynn Heights Drive - north of Finch Ave, west of Dixie Road.