Festival Hydro Expands Tree Power Program Through Partnerships with Bluewater and Huron East

Festival Hydro is pleased to announce the expansion of the Tree Power Program to the Municipalities of Bluewater and Huron East through partnerships with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA), and both municipalities.

The Tree Power Program provides residents with access to carefully selected native tree species that help improve air quality, increase shade, enhance residential landscapes, and reduce household energy consumption over time. The initiative supports Festival Hydro's commitment to environmental sustainability while complementing the goals of Ontario's Save on Energy program.

As part of Festival Hydro's goal to expand the Tree Power Program across all its service territories, the Bluewater and Huron East programs provide residents with an opportunity to make a lasting investment in their properties, communities, and the environment.

"Festival Hydro is proud to partner with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, Maitland Valley Conservation Authority, the Municipality of Bluewater, and the Municipality of Huron East to bring the Tree Power Program to local residents," said Jeff Graham, President and CEO of Festival Hydro. "As part of our goal to expand the Tree Power Program across all Festival Hydro service territories, we are pleased to support an initiative that helps create healthier, greener communities. The program also supports the goals of Ontario's Save on Energy program by encouraging conservation and reducing energy use through strategic tree planting. By working together, we are providing local residents and customers with an opportunity to make a lasting investment in their properties, their communities, and a more sustainable future."

Nathan Schoelier, General Manager and Secretary-Treasurer (Acting) and Stewardship and Conservation Lands Manager at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, highlighted the value of collaboration in delivering community-based environmental programs.

"Tree Power is an on-the-ground example of the value of working together. This partnership enhances community sustainability through trees planted by the community itself."

Jessica Rudy, Chief Administrative Officer for the Municipality of Huron East, spoke to the long-term community benefits of the initiative.

"Trees are an investment in the future of our community. Through the Tree Power Program, residents can help make Huron East greener while enjoying the environmental and energy-saving benefits that trees provide for years to come."

The Tree Power Program supports local climate resilience and energy conservation efforts by encouraging strategic tree planting that can provide shade around homes, reduce cooling costs during summer months, and contribute to healthier, more sustainable communities.

Bluewater Tree Power Program

Residents of the Municipality of Bluewater can purchase trees through the Tree Power Program by visiting the ABCA online store.

• Order deadline: September 24, 2026 (while supplies last)
• Tree pickup: September 26, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
• Pickup location: Zurich Ball Diamond Parking Lot

Huron East Tree Power Program

Residents of the Municipality of Huron East can purchase trees through the Tree Power Program by visiting the ABCA online store.

• Order deadline: October 15, 2026 (while supplies last)
• Tree pickup: October 17, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
• Pickup location: Seaforth Town Hall Parking Lot (Victoria Street and Gouinlock Street)

About Tree Power

Tree Power is a partnership initiative that promotes environmental sustainability through the planting of carefully selected native tree species. Trees can provide shade, improve air quality, enhance neighbourhood green spaces, and reduce residential energy use over time.

The program complements the objectives of Ontario's Save on Energy program by encouraging energy conservation and helping residents take meaningful action to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while creating healthier, more resilient communities for future generations.