Planning a planting project

Implementing tree planting and forest restoration initiatives at the scale needed will require new organizations across the country! We've created introductory pages to explain the project planning process and outline key considerations and resources for planning a successful project. 

Resources 

Explore the science, tools, and case studies that can help you in the planning stage of your tree planting or forest restoration project. 

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Two people standing on a grassy path along a forest looking up into the trees

Before you begin

  • There are a few things to consider about your local context and organization’s capacity before you can get started with planning your project. Explore some of the topics below to understand what type and scale of project you’re best set up for. 
Closeup of a tree planter holding a seedling.

Budgeting and Funding 

  • Understanding the costs related to a quality planting project up-front can help you plan for how you will finance and budget your project. Explore this section to consider what costs and financing options apply to your project. 
Landscape of a recently reforested field and meadow in fall, in Canada.

Land and Site Selection

  • The site where your project will be implemented will inform important aspects of your project planning. Explore this section to understand more about how to translate land characteristics into project decisions.  
Seedlings in tray

Seed and Stock

  • Sourcing and ordering seed and stock is a critical part of any planting project. Explore this section to learn more about working with tree nurseries, selecting stock type, assessing stock quality, seed source and collection. 
Close up of a tree planter's hand pushing down on a bright blue shovel handle in long green grass with yellow flowers

Tree Planting 

  • Every planting project requires context-specific considerations related to site preparation and technique. Explore this section to learn more about site preparation methods and what to look out for during a planting.  
A tree planter poses next to a newly planted tree.

Maintenance and Stewardship 

  • A tree planting project continues long after the trees are in the ground. Explore this section to learn more about characteristics of a planting that impact maintenance activities and their importance in the reaching ‘free to grow’ stage. 
Two people inspect a conifer tree in a field of diverse wild plants

Monitoring and Reporting   

  • Measuring and communicating the progress and success of your project depends on a range of factors and your project’s objectives. Explore this section to consider how you define and determine if your project is achieving its goals.  
A tree planter in Canada walks through a field, with trees in fall colours in the background.

Have you heard about the 2 Billion Trees program?

The Government of Canada's 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program provides financial support to tree planting organizations, funding up to 100% of project costs for Indigenous applicants and up to 50% for all others.  

Closeup of a small sapling growing in the forest floor.