Ayr, ON (October 29, 2026) – GrandBridge Energy and SWR have added 100 native trees and shrubs to the microforest at Cedar Creek Public School in Ayr, building on a partnership that is bringing greener spaces to local communities.
A team of 29 GrandBridge Energy employees returned to the school on October 21 to expand the microforest they established in 2024. Together, Cedar Creek Public School students, GrandBridge Energy volunteers and SWR planted 11 native species to support the microforest’s continued growth and resilience.
GrandBridge Energy funded the planting through a donation to SWR, building on an ongoing partnership between the two organizations to enhance local biodiversity and create greener, more sustainable communities. The Waterloo Region District School Board also played an important role by supporting student participation in expanding the microforest, which is adjacent to the Cedar Creek Public School playground.
This year’s work focused on infill planting — adding trees and shrubs within an existing microforest. Introducing younger plants creates a greater mix of ages, sizes and structure, helping support a healthier, more resilient ecosystem.
“Planting a microforest is just the beginning. Supporting its continued growth is equally important,” said Sarah Hughes, President & CEO of GrandBridge Energy. “It’s rewarding to see our employees return to strengthen the Ayr microforest and work alongside students, giving them hands-on opportunities to connect with nature and learn about caring for their local environment. This marks our sixth planting in partnership with SWR. Together, we are demonstrating our shared commitment to sustainability and making a lasting, positive difference in the communities we serve.”
SWR coordinated the planting and provided GrandBridge Energy volunteers with hands-on instruction and guidance.
“SWR is thrilled to continue our partnership with GrandBridge Energy, a long-time champion of sustainability in Waterloo Region,” said Tova Davidson, Executive Director of SWR. “Hands-on projects like the Cedar Creek microforest empowers students and residents to make a lasting, positive impact on our community’s biodiversity and wellbeing.”
Microforests are densely planted areas of native trees and shrubs that help restore natural ecosystems in urban and community spaces. They provide important environmental benefits, including increasing biodiversity, creating wildlife habitat, capturing carbon, improving soil health, managing stormwater and providing natural cooling.
“It was so great to see students from multiple grades engaging in this project with members from the GrandBridge Energy team. It was fitting that on this National “Take me Outside day” students had an opportunity to do hands-on learning with the SWR team, developing a deeper appreciation and respect for nature. This microforest will have a lasting impact on our school community for generations to come,” said Stephanie Morris, Principal, Cedar Creek Public School.
Microforests also benefit communities by improving air quality, providing shade, reducing noise and creating green spaces that support well-being. Located on the grounds of Cedar Creek Public School, the Ayr microforest also offers students opportunities to connect with nature, learn about local ecosystems and enjoy a greener schoolyard as the trees mature.
GrandBridge Energy has supported SWR’s Microforest Program since it began in 2021, planting more than 500 trees and shrubs at schools and community spaces in Cambridge and North Dumfries.
This latest planting supports GrandBridge Energy’s commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement and sustainability, reflecting the priorities of the utility’s Strategic Plan and ongoing efforts highlighted in its 2025 Corporate Responsibility Report.
