The Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park (in the sun) Photo by: Benjamin Gerow
Siksika Nation Community Shelterbelt is an initiative put forward by Project Forest in Canada. Today, members of the community feel the impact of modern climate change first hand. Located in a valley with little protection from extreme weather, Siksika Nation proves especially vulnerable through those extreme weather seasons.
This phenomenon is not new to the rest of Alberta, as the federal government has been providing shelterbelts to farmers for nearly 100 years, but Siksika was never given access to the trees or their benefits, until now.
In May of 2024, Project Forest planted 130,760 trees and shrubs, creating 27.8 km (92.9 km total individual rows) of new shelterbelts in communities and agricultural areas. As more and more seedlings are planted, the one million number is quickly approaching.
The 1 millionth tree celebration will take place at the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park on May 22nd, and offers a full day of activities for attendees, with no tickets required.
CJWE spoke with Executive Director, Mike Toffan of Project Forest about the celebration and the decision to host at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park.
Mike also told us about their plan for a free seedling giveaway, and why.
We asked Mike about how people can show their support for tree planting and Project Forest.
A first come first serve BBQ will also be taking place, with the millionth tree ground breaking kicking off at 10am. More info on the Siksika Nation Shelterbelt Project can be found here, and more info on the event can be found here.
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