Welland invites residents to dig in for Earth Day with green initiatives and community action

The City of Welland, in collaboration with its Green Advisory Committee, is inviting residents to celebrate Earth Day 2026 through a series of community events and initiatives that support environmental stewardship and community pride.

Taking place on Saturday, April 18, activities include the kickoff of the City’s annual free tree giveaway, the Earth Day Extravaganza at the Welland Farmers Market, and a city-wide community clean-up.

“These Earth Day activities give residents simple, meaningful ways to take part in building a greener Welland,” said Jennifer McPetrie, director of community services. “Whether it’s planting a tree, joining the clean-up, or visiting the market, every action supports a healthier environment and a stronger community.”

To help grow Welland’s urban canopy, residents can register to receive a free tree sapling through the City’s annual giveaway. Six species are offered, with pickup scheduled during the Welland Farmers Market:

• Saturday, April 18: Eastern Redbud, Tulip Tree, Red Gum
• Saturday, April 25: Serviceberry, Paper Birch, Sugar Maple

Pickup times are from 8 a.m. to noon, with any unclaimed trees available on April 25 at noon. Full details and registration are available at: https://www.welland.ca/Events/eventsinfo/treeGiveaway.asp.

Online registration opens Tuesday, March 31, with in-person sign-up available Wednesday, April 1 at the Welland Community Centre. Each household is eligible for one tree while quantities last. Residents must present identification matching their registration at pickup.

The Earth Day Extravaganza will run from 8 a.m. to noon at Welland Market Square, 70 Young St. The family-friendly event will feature free seed kits, a charity barbecue, and hands-on activities for children. Local organizations will also be onsite with interactive displays, resources, and environmental information.

Residents are invited to participate in the community clean-up on April 18 from 8 a.m. to noon. Garbage bags will be available for pickup at the market, and participants are encouraged to bring their own gloves to help reduce waste. No pre-registration is required. Volunteers can help by collecting litter in parks, open spaces, and along trails throughout the city.

All collected litter should be placed in the provided garbage bags, securely tied, and left beside a municipal garbage can at one of the following locations for pickup: Chippawa Park, Maple Park, Memorial Park, Merritt Park, and Merritt Island.

Any additional garbage that cannot be placed at these locations can be collected by City parks staff upon request. Requests for extra pickup can be emailed to parksandforestry@welland.ca.

The City’s Earth Day programming supports its strategic priority of environmental stewardship by promoting sustainable practices, enhancing green spaces, and encouraging community participation in protecting the local environment.

More information about these events is available at: https://www.welland.ca/Events/eventsinfo/earthdayextravaganza.asp.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Orlando
Communications Specialist
905-735-1700 x2133
paul.orlando@welland.ca