Elder Tree Care Day Highlights
On June 14, the community of Port Dalhousie came together to celebrate a shared passion for protecting and preserving elder trees. Residents, council members, and tree advocates gathered to honor a legacy Little Leaf Linden Tree and celebrate the launch of its new Tree Trust chapter.
The event began with a warm welcome from Vince Mayne, Port Dalhousie Chapter Manager, followed by words from Mayor Mat Siscoe, and Tree Trust Director, Toni Ellis. Colin Johnston of St. John’s Anglican Church offered a historical perspective on the cemetery and its incredible trees.
Andrew Hordyk, lead arborist and owner of Arborwood Tree Service, led a discussion and walkabout highlighting the issues compromising the tree’s structure and health. He demonstrated how his team would address fundamental structural issues thereby extending its lifespan.
The crowd was amazed as the skilled team of arborists secured their lines and climbed into the 150-year-old Little Leaf Linden tree. To mark the occasion, a plaque was presented, recognizing the tree’s significance in the history of the Port Dalhousie community. The plaque was installed at the base of the tree as a lasting tribute to its legacy.
Next, Jason Henry and Laura Silverthorne of Land Care Niagara led an engaging tree planting
demonstration. They included specific insights on Niagara’s soil origin and composition,
practical tips for planting theft-resistant trees, and clear, step-by-step instructions. The
demonstration wrapped up with an open Q&A, allowing attendees to raise their planting
questions and concerns.
As with many Tree Trust events, guests at Port Dalhousie’s Elder Tree Care Day didn’t leave empty handed—they also had chances to win great prizes! Draws featured a Dogwood and Black Walnut sapling, a handcrafted bat box courtesy of Land Care Niagara, conservation area day passes, and ice cream for four, just to name a few.
Andrew Hordyk then took the group on a guided tree walk through St. John’s cemetery, showcasing remarkable Oak trees, proud ornamental Golden Rain trees, and everything in between. Guests learned about tree identification, ecological significance of elder trees, and discussed and debunked common tree myths.
To wrap up the event, the generous winner of the Black Walnut sapling graciously donated it back to the cemetery. A few lucky guests who stayed behind enjoyed a one-on-one tree planting session with Land Care Niagara to add this new leafy addition to the grounds!
Jason Henry guides a local youth in planting a Black Walnut tree (pictured above).
This Tree Trust chapter got off to a great start in Port Dalhousie with its Elder Tree Care event. Guests participated in a lively morning of ecological stewardship and community unity, witnessing the preservation of an elder tree and the planting of four new saplings. Many thanks to everyone who attended and embraced the importance of safeguarding our community’s treasured trees.
Tree Trust’s Port Dalhousie Chapter is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help lead its initiative. No experience is necessary—just a love for trees and a willingness to get involved!
To get involved or for any questions, please email [email protected].
Images courtesy of Maya Sreekumar and Paige Palmer.
This event is a partnership between Tree Trust and Tree Canada.
Port Dalhousie’s Chapter lead
Vince recently moved to the Niagara Region and quickly became captivated by the rich history of Port Dalhousie and its majestic urban forest.
Through his volunteer work with local community groups, he learned of widespread concern for the area’s aging trees. His research uncovered that many of these historic trees had once been designated Trees of Distinction nearly 35 years ago—but had since been largely forgotten.
Today, Vince is dedicated to raising
awareness and supporting the care and preservation of these living landmarks.
Vince P Mayne
Port Dalhousie’s Tree Trust Arborist
Andrew Hordyk
