Shade sail canopy pilot project
Basal and Leaf Area
Benefits derived from an urban forest are directly related to the canopy or, the leaf area.
Shade Canopy Pilot Project
On average a mature tree provides more shade, moisture retention and carbon sequestration than a younger, smaller tree, therefore, the bigger the tree the better. Toronto’s tree canopy is in decline and the trees planted today will take over 5-10 years before roots are established and adequate canopy coverage for people and buildings are provided. The Shade Canopy project is a low-cost, permanent retractable shade canopy using recycled boat sails for parks, and schools to provide shading until trees are established. The project is a partnership between GreenHere, The Toronto Cancer Prevention Coalition, Public Health and the City of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department.
On October 1, 2005, GreenHere launched the Dovercourt Park shade canopy pilot. Designed by Rebekka and Jane Hutton, the shade sail canopy structure provides an immediate and practical solution to the lack of shade in public space. The goal of the Shade Canopy Project is to provide Toronto communities, daycares, parks, school boards and other municipalities with the capacity to establish sun-safe outdoor spaces. The Shade Sail canopy may also be used at City skating rinks to extend the ice skating season and prevent ice cracking. GreenHere, City parks supervisors and City recreation staff have identified seven local Toronto parks as priority shade canopy installation sites.
Contact us to learn more about this exciting project.
