Trees Winnipeg wants to protect Winnipeg's forest canopy and is encouraging citizens to plant trees in their private yards.

The Winnipeg ReLeaf Tree Planting Program will continue this year, with over 400 trees planted last year. the program was create to provide Winnipeg homeowners with affordable trees for their yard, plus training to keep them alive and healthy.

Winnipeg loses around 5000 elm trees every year to Dutch elm disease, with 80% on private property. Ash trees are the second most common, but will be at risk when emerald ash borer invades Manitoba.

"The combined effects of Dutch elm disease and emerald ash borer in our communities will be devastating," said Trees Winnipeg's Executive Director Kerienne La France in a statement. "The City of Winnipeg's own tree planting program simply won't be able to keep pace with the damage caused by emerald ash borer, but homeowners can get a head start by planting trees before this pest arrives."

For $55, homeowners can get a tree packages which includes a tree planting workshop, technical support, and follow-up after planting. A variety of tree species exists to promote greater species diversity. The deadline to register for the program is May 15.

Trees Winnipeg was founded in 1992 as The Coalition to Save the Elms. It was formed in response to the threat of Winnipeg's American elm population by Dutch elm disease. Trees Winnipeg now works to promote tree species diversity, urban forest research, tree planting, and preserve Winnipeg's elm canopy.