UPDATE: The Vancouver park board has unanimously passed the motion to establish a commemorative tree and shrub planting program, starting in September or sooner.
A park board commissioner in Vancouver is putting forward a motion today for a tree memorial program.
Catherine Evans says it would give people a chance have a tree or shrub planted to commemorate a life event or an occasion.
The concept is similar to a memorial bench, but would cost less.
Right now, it costs about $4,000 to get a dedication on a park bench for 10 years or $25,000 for a perpetual commitment.
For a memorial tree, the cost would be significantly less. Evans estimates it would cost anywhere between $400 to $600 to have a tree planted and maintained for five years.
A memorial tree with a plaque would cost $1,200.
“It is a more affordable program and it would help us get some trees planted in our parks,” says Evans.
The program is not meant to be a revenue generator for the board, but would cover the costs.
Evans says she knows there is a demand for it and it is time for Vancouver to follow the example set in other Canadian cities where memorial trees are common.
“People go ahead and plant trees anyway,” says Evans. “It would be nice for them not to do it surreptitiously. I think providing people with a choice to have a living tree or shrub is a nice option.”
The proposal goes before the board Monday night.
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