The City of Montreal announced a reduction in the funds allocated for its tree‑planting program and for controlling the emerald ash borer, even as it pursues a target of planting 500,000 trees by 2030. The budget cut was disclosed on Saturday, September 26, 2026, and applies to both new planting initiatives and the ongoing pest‑management efforts that protect the city’s urban forest.
Montreal’s long‑term plan calls for half a million new trees to be added to streets, parks and public spaces over the next four years. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve air quality, increase green cover and enhance resilience to climate change. However, the recent financial adjustment means less money will be available to purchase saplings, hire planting crews and maintain the newly planted trees during their critical early years.
In addition to the planting budget, the city also trimmed the allocation for emerald ash borer control. The invasive beetle threatens ash trees across the region, and municipal authorities have previously deployed monitoring and treatment programs to limit its spread. The reduction could slow the pace of inspections, treatments and removal of infested trees, potentially increasing the risk of further damage to the urban canopy.
City officials did not provide a detailed breakdown of the new budget figures, only confirming that the overall funding for both tree planting and pest control has been lowered. The decision reflects a re‑evaluation of municipal spending priorities, though specific reasons for the cut were not outlined in the announcement.
Despite the funding change, the city reaffirmed its commitment to the 500,000‑tree objective, indicating that the goal remains unchanged. Municipal planners will need to adjust timelines, seek alternative financing or modify implementation methods to stay on track with the ambitious planting target.