The City of Brandon has secured federal funding to significantly expand the urban canopy at the Canada Packers Sports Complex, with approximately 470 new trees set to be planted across the popular recreation facility.
The project is receiving $67,470 through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Growing Canada’s Community Canopies initiative, a national program funded by the Government of Canada that supports tree planting projects in communities across the country.
The Canada Packers Sports Complex is one of Brandon’s premier outdoor recreation destinations, attracting residents and visitors alike with its soccer fields, cricket facilities, ultimate frisbee field, lacrosse field, pathways and other amenities. City officials say the addition of hundreds of new trees will help transform the complex into an even greener and more welcoming space.
Beyond enhancing the site’s appearance, the trees are expected to provide additional shade and comfort for athletes, spectators and families using the facility. The project will also contribute to Brandon’s broader environmental goals by strengthening the city’s urban canopy and improving the long-term sustainability of the recreation hub.
Federation of Canadian Municipalities President Tim Tierney said the organization is pleased to support Brandon’s initiative, noting that strategically planted trees help create cooler public spaces, improve air quality and build healthier neighbourhoods for future generations.
Federal Secretary of State for Nature Nathalie Provost highlighted the value trees bring to communities, from expanding green spaces to creating gathering places that improve quality of life. She said the investment will help Brandon build a healthier, more resilient and sustainable community.
Brandon Deputy Mayor Glen Parker welcomed the announcement, describing trees as an important component of healthy and vibrant communities. Parker said the funding will help make the Canada Packers Sports Complex a more inviting destination while delivering lasting environmental benefits for years to come.
The initiative also coincides with National Forest Week, which celebrates the important role forests and trees play in creating healthy, sustainable and resilient communities.
The Brandon project is part of the Growing Canada’s Community Canopies program, a $291-million initiative aimed at supporting the planting of at least 1.2 million trees across Canada by March 2031. The program is delivered through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund, with additional support from Tree Canada.
