Guelph Urban Forest Friends

Book Club: Nature of our Cities
2025-09-23 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | University of Guelph – Arboretum, 250 Arboretum Rd, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
Nature of Our Cities: Live Q&A with Dr. Nadina Galle
Curious about how cities can thrive in harmony with nature? Join us for an exciting follow-up session to explore the bold ideas behind Nature of Our Cities!
Dive into the book’s powerful themes—where technology meets ecology to build smarter, greener communities.
Bring your questions and curiosity for a chance to engage directly with Dr. Nadina Galle, the visionary author behind the concept of the Internet of Nature.
Expect a lively, thought-provoking conversation that will leave you inspired to rethink urban life and your role in shaping its future.
In-person event
To register: Book Club online registration link

Wednesday Noon Hour Walk
2025-09-24 12:00 - 13:00 | University of Guelph – Arboretum, 250 Arboretum Rd, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
Wednesday Noon Hour Walk: Seeds of Wonder!
Take a midweek break and join us for a refreshing walk that’s all about seeds! Discover the fascinating world of nature’s tiny powerhouses—how they travel, grow, and shape the ecosystems around us.
Where: Walks start at The Arboretum kiosk at the Campus entrance to the Arboretum
What to bring: Curiosity and comfy shoes!
Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or just seed-curious, this walk will leave you inspired by the magic hidden in every pod, puff, and pinecone.
for more information: Wednesday Walks | The Arboretum
Meet at Hales McKay Shelter near Arboretum parking lots

"Nature's Best Hope" by Doug Tallamy
2025-09-24 19:00 - 21:00 | University of Guelph – Arboretum, 250 Arboretum Rd, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
Reimagine Your Yard—Restore the Planet
Join Doug Tallamy for a captivating talk on how we can be Nature’s Best Hope during National Forest Week, and all year long!
Doug Tallamy, professor of Agriculture presents his vision for a Homegrown National Park that supports the insects and animals that sustain humans. By planting Native plants and trees, we can create a network of viable habitats providing vital corridors that connect remaining natural areas and enhance local ecosystems.
The headlines are sobering: global insect populations are plummeting, and North America has lost three billion breeding birds. These alarming trends are a wake-up call—our current landscape designs aren’t just falling short, they’re failing the ecosystems that sustain us.
But here’s the good news: you can be part of the solution.
By planting native species in our yards, gardens, and green spaces, we can rebuild the food webs that support birds, bees, butterflies, and more. Native plants are nature’s powerhouses—they:
Feed pollinators and wildlife
Sequester carbon
Support diverse native bee communities
Protect and manage our watersheds
Together, we can create a Homegrown National Park—a vibrant, connected network of habitats right in our own backyards. This grassroots movement empowers everyone to play a vital role in conservation, turning private properties into thriving ecosystems that link and strengthen the natural areas around us.
Your yard can be a lifeline. Your choices can shape the future.
Are you ready to grow something that matters? Come out to this talk to be inspired to action!
Doors open at 7:00, talk starts at 7:30 pm
There are two kinds of tickets available— in person tickets at the OAC Centennial Arboretum Centre (only 200 seats) and online tickets, via the Arboretum Zoom account (495 online tickets available). Tickets are the same price, $10. All proceeds support The Arboretum’s educational programming for future National Forest Week events.

For more information and to register: To register
Doug Tallamy’s talk is made possible by the Bob Keith Education Fund at the University of Guelph Arboretum (with in-kind sponsorship by the Delta Hotel Guelph)

Tree Bingo
2025-09-25 19:30 - 21:00 | Red Chevron Club, 34 Elizabeth St, Guelph, ON, Canada
Forest Bingo Night!
Hosted by Green Drinks Guelph & Nature Guelph
Join us for an evening of fun, facts, and forest-themed bingo at the cozy Red Chevron Club (34 Elizabeth St, Guelph)!
Cash Bar
Prizes to be won!
Nature trivia & surprises
Whether you’re a nature nerd or just bingo-curious, this is your chance to mingle, learn, and laugh in great company.
Bring your friends and your forest smarts!
No registration required.

CN Ecoconnexions Community Planting, and Trees for Guelph Community Planting
2025-09-27 09:30 - 12:00 | Grange road park, 598 Grange Road, Guelph, ON, Canada
Join Us for a Thriving Naturalization Planting Event!
Dive into nature and make a lasting impact at our Naturalization Planting Event with native trees and shrubs!
Event Highlights:

Hands-On Planting Experience: Get your hands dirty and help us plant a variety of native trees and shrubs. All necessary materials, including plants, mulch, water, and tools, will be provided on site.
Expert Guidance: Learn from the best! City staff and Trees for Guelph experts will be there to demonstrate proper planting techniques and answer all your questions about tree planting and the species being planted.
Convenient Amenities: Enjoy the convenience of on-site parking and portable washrooms.
Weather-Ready Fun: Rain or shine, we’re planting! Come dressed for the weather and bring your filled water bottle and a snack to keep you energized. Sturdy footwear and gloves are recommended for a comfortable experience.

Why Attend?

Make a Difference: Contribute to the beautification and ecological health of our community.
Learn and Grow: Gain valuable knowledge about native plants and sustainable gardening practices.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for all ages, bring your family and friends for a day of outdoor fun and learning.

Join us for a day of planting, learning, and connecting with nature. We can’t wait to see you there!
Location: Grange Road Park Natural Area, 598 Grange Rd.

Talking about Trees
2025-09-27 10:00 - 11:30 | Guelph Enabling Garden, 709 Woolwich St, Guelph, ON, N1H 3Y8, Canada
Join Us for an Enchanting Storytelling Event at Enabling Gardens!
Get ready for a magical day at the Enabling Gardens where The Superhero for Trees will make a special appearance!
Event Highlights:

Epic Tale of the Ash Tree: Immerse yourself in the captivating story of the Ash tree, a symbol of tenacity and courage. Discover its incredible journey of self-preservation against all odds, and the wisdom it has gathered as the riverside flourished around it.
Interactive Art Activity: Unleash your creativity with a fun art activity! Children of all ages and their families will have the chance to create their own masterpiece to take home as a cherished memory.

Bring your imagination and join us for a day filled with storytelling, creativity, and nature’s wonders. We can’t wait to see you there!
This family friendly event is hosted by the Guelph Storytellers Guild.
Rain or shine event. If raining meet under the picnic shelter.
No registration required.
