The Toronto Islands play a vital role in protecting downtown Toronto, acting as a natural barrier against strong winds and storm surges from Lake Ontario. In recent years, however, the Islands—particularly the grounds of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club (RCYC)—have suffered significant tree loss due to severe storms in 2017 and 2019.
In response, the RCYC launched the Memorial Tree Program, an initiative inviting
Members to support the restoration of the Island’s tree canopy. Each contribution helps fund the planting of a new tree, which will be commemorated on a central memorial plaque—offering a meaningful and lasting tribute.
In April 2025, RCYC proudly partnered with Tree Trust to further enhance this important program. Through this collaboration, Tree Trust will:
- Provide expert guidance in selecting suitable tree species and ideal planting locations
- Offer charitable tax receipts for donations to the program
- Conduct a comprehensive tree inventory of the RCYC property, identifying trees that could benefit from professional preservation care by the Island’s approved Tree Trust approved Arborist, Tyler Ganton of Out of Your Tree Care.
A portion of each donation will also support Tree Trust’s broader conservation efforts
across Ontario.
We are deeply grateful to all Members for their ongoing care and stewardship of the
Island’s natural environment. Your participation in the Memorial Tree Program
contributes not only to the legacy of RCYC, but also to the resilience and beauty of the
Island for generations to come.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Executive
Assistant Alesha Rahmaan at [email protected].
