Up in the treetops with a Region of Waterloo arborist
The Region may be a large organization, but within it are thousands of people working to support their neighbours. We want to introduce you to the many faces and roles at the Region who are working to deliver programs and services you rely on every day.
As you meet these employees, we encourage you to ask questions on our social media channels. They will answer! Find us on X, Facebook and Instagram.
Up first, we’re introducing you to Will. Up high in trees over roads, houses and fences – his work can get a little hairy. As a Regional arborist, he emphasizes precision in removing dead, declining, or defective trees to keep people and property safe. Know any lumberjack stereotypes? Well, we’re chopping those down. Meet Will and see his skills in action!
Will and the rest of the Region’s horticultural team is working to protect people’s safety. They’re also working to address the impacts of climate change. Weather patterns are changing and there are more extreme weather events like high winds and ice storms. We’re seeing invasive species like emerald ash borer, and oak wilt has just crossed into Canada. In response to all of these challenges, Will’s team is focused on getting more trees planted.
Check out our story about the Trees for Woolwich project, where volunteers coordinated with the Region of Waterloo’s horticultural team.
Studies have shown that adding more tree canopy and green infrastructure, especially to our urban areas, has economic, social and environmental benefits. Green infrastructure is key to creating a more liveable region. Planting now leads to future benefits that include storm water runoff, shade, and reducing the urban heat island effect.
We hope you enjoyed learning about Will and his role at the Region. Next up, you’ll meet Michelle Ngo – she’s a Region of Waterloo public health inspector. Tune in next month to learn about her role and how she defies the “bad guy” image the movies tend to portray for people in her line of work.
