By Karen Howell
Nackawic-Millville CAO Kathryn Clark reported to Nackawic-Millvillle Rural Community Council that work on the new Dumfries Fire/Community hall is progressing. She said the siding on the building is almost complete, painting has begun, and tile work is expected to begin this week. She said kitchen cabinets are scheduled to be installed the first week of April. Clark said she met with Hatchard Engineering regarding the demolition of the existing fire/community hall and groundwork. They are going to draft a document outlining the work so quotes can be obtained from contractors.
Tree Planting Initiative
Council heard a presentation from Cameron Ouellet regarding his tree-planting initiative. The high school student is proposing the idea out of personal interest in the environment.
Ouellet cited numerous advantages of more trees in the community, including improving air quality, a cooler town, calmer spaces which help reduce stress, shading areas, managing storm water, creating habitats for birds and insects, storing carbon, raising property values, increases youth influence (connecting with nature and more likely to protect it), addresses climate change issues. He said some disadvantages include seasonal clean-up, safety risks, and infrastructure damage.
To help eliminate some of this, he would like to plant deep-rooted trees. Ouellet would like to grow a different tree species each year and will grow the trees himself. He is currently looking at Red Oak and Sugar Maple.
He mentioned Fredericton is a great example of an urban forest, with a 68 per cent canopy tree coverage, the highest in Canada.
It was agreed to share the information with the Recreation and Park Committee and to schedule a meeting. Mayor Tim Fox said this would allow them to put together a plan and consult with the Public Works Department.
Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane suggested Ouellet also reach out to other groups, such as the Lions Club, schools, and clubs, to raise awareness of the project. He congratulated Ouellet on an ‘amazing presentation.’
