BC Hydro grant funds tree planting at Fort St. John’s off-leash dog park

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – Several new trees will be planted at Fort St. John’s off-leash dog park this week, thanks to a $7,500 ReGreening Grant from BC Hydro.

The city hopes to plant the 15 new trees at the park between May 8th and 10th, but parks manager Carrie Harder says the planting may continue after the weekend.

“Just because we’re trying to make sure we get the mulch in and the fencing around each tree. Just to protect them from the dogs running in between them,” said Harder.

The grant covers the purchase and planting of mountain pines, white spruce, bur oak, brandon elm, and laurel leaf willows, all of which are expected to thrive in the Fort St. John climate. 

A few trees are being planted to replace trees that died in the winter of 2023, but most will be planted in new areas around the park. 

“They’ll almost be in like an arc pattern across the dog park, so they’re going to be really nice to see, and they’ll help with the wind as well,” Harder said.   

Beautification of the park will continue for the next several weeks, with the installation of seasonal hanging baskets and maintenance, including weed whacking and mowing.

Once planting is complete, the new trees will take time to adjust, but all will have fresh mulch around the base and fencing to protect them moving forward, Harder said. 

Following the planting, city staff encourage dog owners visiting the park to be cautious around the new tree sites and to call 3-1-1 if they notice any damage to the trees, mulch, or fencing.