(rdnewsNOW/Adam Ophus)

By Adam Ophus

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Town adding fruit trees to recognition program

Jun 21, 2021 | 9:38 AM

In an effort to get the most out of taxpayer dollars, at a June 1 Rocky Mountain House Town Council meeting, Councillor Merrin Fraser put forward a motion to incorporate fruit/berry trees to the town’s tree planting policy.

The Town of Rocky has a Recognition/Memorial Tree Program which allows the general public to remember a friend, family member or to celebrate a milestone by contributing to the cost of tree to be placed on the town’s trail system or in a park. Once the installation is complete the Town takes responsibility for all watering and regular maintenance with its approved budget.

Legislative Services Clerk Renee Hartling noted during the June 15 meeting that there will be no additional cost to tax payers as it’s just another tree being added to the recognition program.

Previously the town only had four different types of trees available for the program, none of which were fruit bearing. Those trees are still applicable in the new revisions, however Ure Pear, Prairie Magic Apple, and Evans Sour Cherry trees have been added to list of possible options.

The move is in an effort to support sustainable food systems that will be available to all citizens in the hopes that it will encourage others to do the same.

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During town council’s discussion at their May 18 meeting regarding the Wildlife Attractant Bylaw, the wording was specifically changed to the “intent” to feed wildlife was prohibited. This way the option would be left open to incorporate allowing town residents to plant fruit bearing trees in their front yards.

Council also passed the motion to have the Council and Members at Large Service Recognition Program which will formerly recognize Council and board members at large for their years of service to the community. Council has chosen to plant either a tree or fruit tree from one of the newly added 7 options made available.