Efforts to beautify the city of Sarnia include the establishment of a mini-forest at Wiltshire Park.
Climate Action Sarnia-Lambton is planning to turn a grassy area at the east end of the park into a biodiverse 'island' habitat through the planting of different types of vegetation.
Spokesman Mike Smalls said they'll be mass planting trees into a tight area and will introduce mid and understory vegetation to replicate what a forest looks like.
"In the natural world, of course, it could take 50 to 100 years for it to create this forest look," said Smalls. "What this process does is it speeds it up almost to within a decade. Because trees are planted close together, there's competition for light. Rather than growing outwards so much, they grow upwards. The leaf litter is allowed to accumulate on the ground around them so there's no clean up or grass cutting."
Smalls said the mini-forest will also help create food for both wildlife and birds. He said they have support from the city for maintenance, and also received financial backing from Lambton Wildlife.
"Hopefully the neighbourhood will appreciate the flowering shrubs," he said. "There's going to be shrub roses, serviceberries, red buds and many appealing items. If this concept gains momentum, we will look at expanding and getting service clubs and schools involved. The city does have a lot of parks, and a number of them are underused and underutilized for sure."
Smalls said those interested in helping out can meet at the park on Saturday, May 7 from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
"There will be a lot of mulching to be done, besides the planting of trees. It's way at the back of Wiltshire Park and our hope is that the city can get back there with mulch. Regardless of where the mulch is put down, there will be [a lot of] work for many people."
Volunteers are asked to bring gloves, a shovel, and strong footwear.