Deux-Montagnes, October 25, 2019 – The canopy index for the City of Deux-Montagnes increased from 23.9% in 2011 to 29% in 2017. The results were published in the latest issue of the Perspective Grand Montréal, newsletter produced by the Observatoire Grand Montréal. It’s the largest increase in the MRC of Deux-Montagnes (Municipalité Régionale de Conté de Deux-Montagnes) and the fifth largest increase among all 82 municipalities in the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal.

The canopy index is measured by aerial photographs and represents the percentage of the territory covered by the projection of tree crown on the ground. In other words, it refers to the density of the tree canopy. The recent analysis is based on aerial photographs taken in 2017.

This increase in the canopy index is partly due to the growth of the treetops (the trees considered in the calculation of the index must be at least three metres high) and by the city’s efforts in planting trees. In 2020 alone, more than 100 trees will be planted in Deux-Montagnes.

The many benefits of dense tree cover

In addition to having a positive economic impact, the presence of trees and forest cover in cities facilitates adaptation to climate change. Beyond beautifying the landscape, trees improve air quality (positive impact on public health), decrease heat islands (energy savings), and reduce pressure on municipal infrastructure, especially by the rainwater intercepted and absorbed by their leaves and roots.