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International Society of Arboriculture
PO Box 191
Annapolis Junction, MD 20701
United States

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International Society of Arboriculture
270 Peachtree St NW, Suite 1900
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    Climbers' Corner • Tree Academy
    Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday

    Engaging Residents to Take Action in Response to Emerald Ash Borer

    Summary

    LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests) has been engaging residents in their urban forest for over 16 years. The actions of residents, who own the majority of urban trees in Ontario, will have a profound impact on the future of our urban forests. LEAF focuses on involving the public in the health of our urban forests, especially in response to the Emerald Ash Borer. This invasive pest has already begun to have a devastating effect on the Greater Toronto Area and is projected to affect 1.5 million urban ash trees in Toronto and York Region over the next decade. The time for residents to act and improve the health of our urban forests is now.
     
    In addition to serious challenges, EAB also offers unique opportunities for positive change in the private and public portions of our urban forest.  Starting in 2012, LEAF is seizing this opportunity to motivate diverse audiences and neighborhoods to respond to the threat of EAB on their property and in their larger communities. The LEAF EAB Ambassador Program, Backyard Planting Program, and ongoing efforts to find creative solutions for urban wood use rather than disposal, are leading to healthier cities in the Greater Toronto Area. Learn about the successes and key lessons in the LEAF approach to turning the crisis of EAB into an opportunity for increased community engagement in urban forestry.

    Conference Proceedings Documents

    Presenters

    Victoria Badham , Volunteer & Stewardship Coordinator , LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests)

    Victoria holds an Honours Bachelor of Environmental Policy from the University of Toronto and is currently working towards a Masters of Education in Adult Learning and Community Development. She has worked and volunteered with several environmental organizations in an education and outreach capacity. Before joining LEAF, she interned with Evergreen, assisting at-risk youth in the development of community gardens. She has also worked with Toronto Wildlife Centre, providing presentations and education on urban wildlife issues, and has worked in community outreach at the City of Toronto to encourage waste reduction. Victoria enjoys speaking with members of the public and has volunteered in community engagement roles with Toronto Environmental Alliance and Toronto Environmental Volunteers. At LEAF, Victoria has worked as a Program Assistant in the Backyard Tree Planting Program, and more recently has taken on the role of Volunteer and Stewardship Coordinator. Beyond her professional interests, she enjoys travel, photography, music and walking her island dog, Caico.

    Climbers' Corner • Tree Academy
    Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday

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