Saugeen Conservation continues its living legacy across the watershed

In 1989, the Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation (the fund-raising arm of Saugeen Conservation) established a Memorial Grove Program. The idea was to provide individuals with an opportunity to plant a tree in memory of a loved one. Planting a tree not only bestows honour to our loved ones but it also helps to enrich our environment.

During the past 27 years, well over 6,000 trees have been planted across the watershed in three Memorial Groves and six Memorial Forests.

“The foundation is extremely proud of this program,” said chairperson Catherine Dickison. “When you stop to think of the sheer number of trees planted in memory of loved ones, it’s an incredible tribute to our family members and friends who have gone before us. It also means that the memories connected to these forests hold a special significance to all who have participated in the program. It brings conservation and people together in a most meaningful and heartfelt way.”

Once per year, the foundation hosts a Memorial Grove Ceremony where relatives and friends can share in a ceremonial tree-planting and enjoy some fellowship.

Relatives of those who participate in the program receive a certificate, as well as a card, which notifies them of the donation. The donor receives a letter of thanks and all parties receive an invitation to attend the annual ceremony in June.

Planting trees is not only a wonderful way to remember the life of a friend or loved one, but it also provides a living legacy for many generations to come.

For more information on the program, contact publicinfo@svca.on.ca, visit your local funeral home or visit www.svca.on.ca/page.php?page=foundationprograms