The Stratton recreation grounds may look more like a forest in several years if Moe and Joyce Henry have anything to say about it.
Come spring, the couple will be looking to plant up to nine varieties of trees there as part of a “memorial tree” project, in which Stratton residents can buy a tree to remember loved ones.
“It’s an idea my wife and I came up with about a year ago. I thought it would be a nice way commemorate someone,” said Henry, adding the trees also would beautify the community.
The idea, which Henry stressed is non-profit, was approved at a municipal meeting earlier this month, gaining the co-operation of township and the Stratton Recreation Council.
“The rec council’s involved because it’s on their grounds, and the municipality’s involved so they can get the tax receipt,” he noted.
With the help of Art Hammond of Hammond’s Nursery in Fort Frances, the donor can choose from four varieties of flowering crabs, Canadian red cherry, silver maple, American basswood, green ash, and mountain ash.
The trees, which include a plaque with the name of a loved one on it, cost $75, which can be purchased now through the Henrys or the rec council.
“I’ve got some local people who have paid, and will have trees planted at the ceremony this spring,” Henry said.
“But what we will try to do is contact former residents, who still have family here, to see if they’d like remember a loved this way as well,” he added.
And it’s hoped the project will go on for years to come, said Henry.
“It’s not a one-shot deal. Although the first planting will be this spring, we’ll keep on doing it until the park is filled,” he stressed, noting trees could be planted elsewhere if needed.
Those interested in purchasing a tree can contact the Henrys at 483-1220.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
