WAYF is back with more fabulous FREE events!

Date & Time

September 17th, 2023

10am-11:30am

Cedarvale Park - We will meet at the Heath Street exit of St. Clair West station

The Heath Street exit is easiest to find at the lower level from where you get off the train, NOT the upper level where the streetcars stop.

 Rain date: TBA

Join us for a walk to explore and learn about tree identification. We will be learning about both native and invasive species. We will discuss the various features of trees that can help us identify them. Each species has a unique combination of features including the characteristics of the bark, the leaf shape, size and colour, as well as flowers, fruits and more.

Cedarvale Park is one of the top ravines to explore in Toronto containing a trail that leads through a wetland and Mulberry bushes that grow in several areas. The trails have been regenerated with trees planted by many volunteers. The park provides a natural and accessible corridor to those living in the borough of York where no other ravine trails exist.

By understanding the native ecology of the area participants will gain an appreciation of the complex dynamics and the severe impacts of changes made to the local biodiversity. Topics of discussions include: 

●       Tree & Shrub identification: native and invasive species in the local area

●       The relationships and impact of invasive species on native plants and groundcover identification

●       The importance of green spaces on mental health and wellbeing

●       Ravine ecology

This events will be open to everyone, however, we will also prioritize those who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour.

Spots are limited.

There will be a $10 honoraria available to those who are registered to the event.

This tour will involve some walking and standing in the park on unpaved ground with slopes.

The walking tours will be facilitated by Sylvia Jorge.

Facilitator Bio

Sylvia Jorge, has a Masters from the University of Toronto in Forest Conservation specializing in Urban Forestry and the effects of housing intensification on tree canopy cover and abundance. Sylvia has hosted a number of workshops on tree identification and the urban forest in South Etobicoke. She has led guided tours at Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Marie Curtis Park, and various areas throughout the Long Branch Neighbourhood.  Sylvia has also been involved with five tree giveaway events in the Long Branch Neighbourhood.  She is proud of her Peruvian ancestry and passionate about providing greater access to nature and environmental education to racialized communities.