A diverse group came together to breathe a bit of new life into Ben Lee Park over the weekend.
On Saturday, the Kelowna Chinese United Association (KCUA) hosted the Kelowna Tree Planting Festival on what turned out to be a beautiful fall day.
Organizers say it was a great turnout, with over 40 people ranging from children to seniors joining forces to plant several trees at the Rutland park.
The location of the event held some significance with Ben Lee being a prominent Chinese-Canadian leader and a long-time Kelowna city councillor.
The KCUA was supported by several local organizations to put on the festival, including the Tree Protectors Association, the Kelowna South-Central Association of Neighbours, the Rutland Residents Association and the Chinese Freemasons Society.
“City representative Stuart Mackey opened the event, highlighting trees’ vital role in enhancing urban health,” a release from organizers said.
“He urged residents to take part in tree planting and environmental initiatives, while also outlining the city’s efforts to expand green spaces, promote private tree planting and engage the public through various community programs.”
Attendees were given practical training from tree experts and provided with a step-by-step guide on both planting techniques and how to care for trees to ensure healthy growth.
Then, under the supervision of those experts, several saplings were planted in a heart shape around the Ben Lee monument.
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