Contest looking to find Region’s ‘Tree of the Year’
Posted Aug 12, 2025 03:00:00 PM.
Last Updated Aug 12, 2025 01:49:02 PM.
Amid the scorching hot temperatures this summer, the shade from Waterloo Region’s urban forest has been a godsend.
But, our trees do more than just provide some relief from the heat, they clean the air, secure the soil and are an integral part of our community.
The 2025 Tree of the Year contest looks to recognize the impact trees, especially mature trees, have on our daily lives. The contest is being put on by Reep Green Solutions, an agency created as a joint initiative between the University of Waterloo and the Elora Environment Centre.
Reep’s Tree Trust program, the Echo Foundation and Sheridan Nurseries have also partnered for the contest.
Five local trees have been nominated:
- Kitchener: Red Oak
- Waterloo: Black Walnut
- Cambridge: Kentucky Coffee-tree
- Wilmot: Bur Oak
- Woolwich: Hackberry
The trees were selected by Reep staff, based on their cultural, ecological or historical significance.
In a statement, Aaron Boonstra, Tree and Winter Maintenance Program Manager, Reep Green Solutions, said, “These magnificent trees are cornerstones in our community. They’re older than any of us and provide so many benefits.”
Voting for the 2025 Tree of the Year contest is open until Aug. 22, 2025
All voters will be entered to win a $100 gift certificate to Sheridan Nurseries.
