The Erin chapter of Tree Trust is proud to celebrate a remarkable milestone – our Chapter Manager, Sue Powell, has been awarded the 2026 Shamrock Award for Environmental Stewardship by the Town of Erin.
Presented at a vibrant awards evening at Centre 2000, the Shamrock Awards recognize the passion, dedication, and community spirit that make Erin such a special place. As Town of Erin CAO Rob Adams shared, the awards highlight “the quiet dedication of our volunteers… and the passion behind those supporting health, sport, and our environment.”
Sue’s recognition reflects a lifetime of commitment. A resident of Erin for 30 years and an environmentalist for over 40, she has been a dedicated advocate for protecting the town’s natural environment. From her early work as an original member of the Town of Erin Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee to her current leadership role with Tree Trust’s Erin chapter, Sue continues to help shape a greener future for the community.
In her own words:
“I just wanted to say a huge thank you for this incredible honour I received – being recognized for a Shamrock Award for Environmental Stewardship means so much to me, very unexpected, as a resident of Erin for 30 years and an environmentalist for over 40 years, and I am truly humbled.”
Sue also highlighted the incredible team behind Erin Tree Trust, a volunteer-led initiative formed just one year ago:
“Regarding Erin’s newest environmental stewardship initiative, Erin Tree Trust, this small group of volunteers, formed just a year ago, are wonderful! I thank them for their support, so dedicated, so excellent pushing this mission forward – thank you to Lisa Sandlos, Gavin Dandy, Lee Anne Downey and our amazing Tree Trust Ontario coordinator Hannah – all have come together to create a super future for this initiative and for the Town of Erin, with so much more exciting things to come.”
The evening itself was a celebration of community, with friends, family, and residents gathering to recognize the many individuals and organizations making a difference across Erin. Sue reflected on how meaningful it was to see so many people honoured:
“We truly have so many wonderful and talented people in our community.”
She also expressed appreciation for local leaders who continue to support environmental initiatives:
“Thank you especially to Councillor Bridget Ryan and John Brennen for dedication to supporting environmental orgs and initiatives like Erin Tree Trust and tree protection guidelines etc.”
Looking ahead, Sue’s vision for Erin is both hopeful and inspiring:
“The future for Erin is bright and green, big trees and large canopies! and together many if not all of us can create a strong, forward-thinking, creative and vibrant community supporting all initiatives across Erin.”
We are incredibly grateful for Sue’s leadership and the dedication of the entire Erin Tree Trust volunteer team. Congratulations, Sue, on this well-deserved recognition.
