Councillor Mark Tadeson Brings Hamilton's First Million Tree Project to Ward 11

Mount Hope Park to showcase environmental leadership as Ward 11 leads Hamilton's urban canopy transformation

Our very own Ward 11 Councillor Mark Tadeson is making Hamilton history by securing the city's very first One Million Trees in the City (OMTC) biodiversity project for Mount Hope Park. As the first councillor to commit to the ambitious environmental initiative, Tadeson is demonstrating the kind of proactive leadership that turns climate goals into real-world impact.

When local environmental advocate Lee Fairbanks launched the OMTC initiative earlier this year, with the bold vision of planting one million trees across Hamilton's urban wards over five years, Tadeson didn't hesitate. He was the first councillor to say yes, and now Ward 11 residents will see the results.

"Council often votes to support biodiversity and climate goals—but Mark is the first to put shovels in the ground," said Fairbanks. "I congratulate Councillor Tadeson for his leadership on this incredibly important issue."

Strategic Vision for Mount Hope Park

Tadeson's approach to the project reflects his commitment to both environmental stewardship and community benefit. The Fall 2025 planting will strategically target underused areas of Mount Hope Park, creating multiple layers of environmental and quality-of-life improvements:

• Highway 6 Buffer Zone: Natural barriers of trees and shrubs will reduce noise and air pollution for residents

• South Corner Dense Plantings: Maximizing biodiversity in previously underutilized park space

• Throughout-Park In-fill: Creating shade corridors and habitat for pollinators and birds

"These natural buffers will not only improve the experience for local residents—they'll also help build a healthier, more resilient ecosystem," Fairbanks noted.

Building Partnerships for Success

Tadeson's leadership extends beyond the initial commitment. He immediately engaged the City's Forestry team to ensure expert assessment and planning for the project.

"Our Forestry team jumped in right away when I encouraged them to assess the site and provide expert input. It was a great example of partnership in action," said Tadeson. "I'll be working with OMTC and Forestry to review every park in Ward 11 to identify more opportunities for biodiversity and shade."

This collaborative approach positions Ward 11 to potentially host multiple OMTC projects, amplifying the environmental benefits for residents.

Setting the Standard for Hamilton

Tadeson's quick action on the OMTC initiative highlights a broader challenge facing Hamilton. While the city currently plants about 20,000 trees annually, meeting the goal of doubling urban tree canopy from 20% to 40% requires dramatically scaling up efforts.

"Sudbury has planted over 200,000 trees annually for four decades," Fairbanks points out. "There's no reason Hamilton can't match that ambition."

By being first to embrace the OMTC vision, Councillor Tadeson is not just serving Ward 11 - he's showing other councillors what environmental leadership looks like in practice.