Lieutenant-governor Announces a Living Tribute
To Recognize Manitoba Award Winners, Volunteers
Lt.-Gov. Janice Filmon will plant a first-of-its-kind Manitoba red maple tree at Government House to kick off the Lieutenant Governor’s Tree Project. This new project recognizes award recipients and those who have contributed to the overall quality of life in Manitoba through their volunteerism and other good works.
“Since taking office last June, I have wanted to find a new, sustainable way of recognizing contributions by individuals to our province, something other than a traditional medal or gift. I believe that planting a beautiful, hardy, long-living tree is an ideal way of recognizing great contributions, which, like a tree, can go on sustaining life for generations.” said Lt.-Gov. Filmon. “It is a pleasure to be able to partner on this project with Manitoba know-how from Wilbert Ronald, owner and tree breeder at Jeffries Nurseries, where this living reward was developed.”
Jeffries Nurseries of Portage la Prairie developed the tree through crossbreeding and hardiness trials over two decades. The tree combines the hardiness of Western maples with the bright red fall colour of those in Eastern Canada. In recognition of this unique breed and Lt.-Gov. Filmon’s commitment to sharing it with community leaders, this variety of maple will be known as Regal Celebration.
“Manitoba tree lovers have very few trees with the brilliant fall colours of eastern maples, so this will be an outstanding addition to prairie regions,” said Ronald. “The leaf of Regal Celebration is similar to that which graces the Canadian flag, so it will have strong recognition with Manitobans and Canadians.”
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor will partner with the forestry departments of the City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba to find appropriate places throughout the province for future plantings.