Cobourg Elder Tree Care Day Highlights

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Cobourg Elder Tree Care Day Highlights

On Saturday, July 26th, Cobourg celebrated the launch of its new Tree Trust chapter, officially becoming part of a growing movement to safeguard Ontario’s elder trees.

With months of planning and strong community support behind them, the team from Tree Trust Cobourg hosted their first Elder Tree Care Day at C.R. Gummow Public School, shining a spotlight on the importance of preserving the town’s urban canopy.

The day kicked off bright and early with the “Tour des Trees” bike ride, led by local tree enthusiast Warren Hoselton. Around 20 participants joined the ride through town, stopping at several distinguished trees along the way to hear stories, learn fun facts, and appreciate the unique living landmarks that help define Cobourg’s natural heritage.

Participants of the bike tour gather for a photo, taking in some much-needed
shade beneath one of Cobourg’s impressive trees.

The bike ride returned just in time for the opening remarks led by chapter chair, Gina Brouwer. James Miller, local Algonquin Anishnaabe, shared insights into the cultural significance of the region’s trees and offered a land acknowledgement recognizing the Williams Treaties First Nations. Deputy Mayor Nicole Beatty followed with welcoming words on behalf of the Town Council and expressed gratitude for the launch of the new Tree Trust chapter in Cobourg.

From left to right: James Miller, Gina Brouwer, Cory MacMillan, and Phil Guenter.
Deputy Mayor, Nicole Beatty.

Phil Guenter and Cory MacMillan of Baum Tree Care led a fascinating pruning demonstration, explaining how arborists assess and care for mature trees. He outlined the steps his team would take to preserve and extend the life of the Sugar Maple in the schoolyard.

From there, they hung their lines and climbed into the tree as the crowd watched in amazement. Spectators were impressed by their athleticism and thoughtful technique aimed at helping the struggling tree recover from structural challenges and environmental stressors.

Phil and Cory from Baum Tree Care demonstrate effective pruning techniques on a trimmed Sugar Maple branch.
Phil at work in the Sugar Maple.

As the arborists got to work in the canopy above, guests refreshed themselves with ice-cold lemonade and snacks from Prep Food Co. Proceeds from the lemonade sales went directly to support Community Living & Respite Northumberland!

The lemonade stand courtesy of Community Living and Respite Northumberland.

Next up, Del Cressman of Cressman Tree Maintenance & Landscaping Ltd. and Ryan Loughlin of Ironwood Tree & Landscape Inc. demonstrated how to plant a tree for long-term success. Step by step, they shared the best practice for planting trees and answered various questions. The demonstration left many with a newfound appreciation for the thoughtful planting practices that give young trees the best chance to grow strong.

Following the tree planting demonstration, the prize draws made for some added fun! With a variety of prizes for all ages—including books,

home decor, gift certificates, and of course, trees—several lucky winners went home smiling, thanks to the generosity of our wonderful sponsors.

Professor Pricklethorn took the stage with his family-friendly presentation that blended laughs with learning. His interactive show had the crowd engaged from start to finish, with plenty of tree jokes to go around. Children eagerly joined Professor Pricklethorn, helping to explain how trees grow and thrive. Hint: Photosynthesis!

Throughout the day, local artist Jenny Duda captivated attendees by creating an intricate piece of fence weaving art. With skill and precision, she demonstrated the weaving process, inviting attendees to join in and contribute to the evolving masterpiece. This interactive activity turned
the fence into a vibrant work of art that reflected the creativity and community spirit of everyone involved.

Del and Ryan plant a Sugar Maple tree in C.R Gummow schoolyard.
Professor Pricklethorn and some brave volunteers encourage everyone to join in: “All we are saying is give trees a chance!”
The Cobourg Tree Trust team proudly stands alongside Jenny’s vibrant fence weaving artwork, a creative highlight to the day’s events.

Overall, it was the perfect day to celebrate elder trees in Cobourg. This launch event was a significant milestone for the Cobourg team, highlighting their commitment to local trees and sparking greater community awareness and involvement.


Thank you to everyone who spent their Saturday with us in Cobourg.


If you’d like to learn more or get involved in this new chapter, please contact
[email protected].

Special thanks to the organizations who contributed to making this event a success:

  • Baltimore Valley Garden Centre
  • Baum Professional Tree Care
  • CIMA+
  • Cressman Tree Maintenance &
    Landscaping Ltd.
  • C.R Gummow PS
  • Ironwood Tree & Landscape Inc.
  • Just in Time Sanitation
  • Kobes Nurseries Inc.
  • Prep Food Co.
  • Town of Cobourg
  • Tree Canada

This event is a partnership between Tree Trust and Tree Canada.

Categories: Cobourg Events
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