by Jonah Ardiel
Published August 18, 2025
Growing a Greener Tomorrow: Tree Canopy in Calgary’s Northeast
Calgary’s urban forest is more than just splashes of green—it’s an important resource in our fight against rising temperatures, poor air quality, and disconnected neighbourhoods. For residents of northeast Calgary, enhancing tree canopy isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about wellbeing.
Current State of the Canopy & City Goals
Calgary’s urban tree canopy sits at approximately 8.2% across public and private lands, according to the City’s latest figures. The aim? Doubling that coverage to 16%, which is projected to be achievable between 2050 and 2060, provided that tree-planting programs scale up significantly. This goal is rooted in the City’s Municipal Development Plan and Climate Strategy, which identify tree canopy growth as a key pillar to environmental resilience. (calgary.ca)
Why Trees Matter — Especially Here
The benefits of an expanded canopy are manifold:
- Natural cooling—critical as summers grow hotter.
- Cleaner air and reduced stormwater runoff.
- Biodiversity support and mental wellness from greener surroundings.
- More walkable, shaded streets, enhancing quality of life for residents.
For Calgary’s northeast—especially newer neighbourhoods like Taradale, Martindale, Saddle Ridge, and Skyview—this is crucial. Many of these areas fall well below the 16% target due to their more recent development and limited green space. Urban forestry initiatives are focused on making this an equity issue: not just more trees, but better access to their benefits in all communities. (calgary.ca)
What We Heard Earlier This Week
Watch this CBC News update from earlier this week—an informative clip that outlines how Calgary’s canopy measures up and what’s being done to grow it: Calgary’s tree-canopy push: why more trees matter.
This brief segment highlights:
- Calgary’s comparison to other cities in North America in terms of canopy coverage.
- The health and environmental gains tied to expansions.
- The City’s target of 7,500 new trees annually (a bump from the 3,500 needed just for replacement) to meet the doubling goal.
- Voices from northeast residents and advocates stressing the need for more equitable green infrastructure.
How Residents Can Help
- Use City Tools to See Your Neighbourhood’s Status
Explore these interactive maps:
- Tree Schedule & Urban Forest Map: visualize planted trees across the city.
- Tree Canopy Data (2012–Present): track canopy growth and coverage by community.
- Plant on Private Property
Whether through front or backyards, adding native or drought-resistant shade trees helps fill canopy gaps faster. Calgary’s Urban Forestry team approves of diverse, hardy species suited for hot, dry summers. - Stay Informed & Participate
The City runs neighbourhood planting programs, where residents can get low-cost or free trees, participate in planting days, and assist with tree care. Keep an eye on City announcements. (calgary.ca) - Care for Young Trees
New saplings need your help: deep watering (especially over the first three summers) and mulch to retain moisture are key to their survival and growth.
The Future is Green—and It Starts Here
Calgary’s urban canopy is a work in progress. With clear City targets, broadcast attention, and local commitment, neighborhoods can become active contributors to a cooler, healthier, more equitable city. Let’s grow a greener future—one tree, one community, one shared story at a time.
More Resources
- Urban Forestry Service Plan & Canopy Targets: City Plan PDF
- Tree Planting & Maintenance Info: City Program Page
- Interactive Canopy Data: Open Data Portal
by Jonah Ardiel
Published August 18, 2025
