Lost a tree in last year’s ice storm? This city is helping residents grow back their shrubs

Free tree watering bags available for Barrie residents. (City of Barrie)

Did you lose a tree during last year’s ice storm?

Barrie is offering free tree watering bags to residents who received a new street tree to replace one that was damaged in 2025.

While the city’s tree planting contractor will continue to water new boulevard trees once a month, officials say extra watering can make a huge difference during the dry months.

Free watering bags

Barrie residents can pick up a free watering bag at Sunnidale Park on July 25 and Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The city asks that you bring proof of address to receive your free bag, adding that quantities are limited.

Since so many replacement trees are being planted after the ice storm, the city has temporarily adjusted its watering bag program.

If your new shrub will be planted in fall 2026 or spring 2027, an opportunity for pick up will be offered in spring of next year.

How to use them

The city recommends using the bag once a week from May through October for the first three growing seasons.

Place it around the base of the tree, fill it with water and leave it alone throughout the growing season. In the fall, remove the bag, let it drain completely and store it somewhere cool and dry until spring.

Prefer to use a garden hose? Place the hose next to the tree, turn it on to a slow trickle and let it run for about an hour once a week.

The city says don’t overwater your shrub. Too much water is as bad as too little.

If you can’t make the pickup dates, you can contact Service Barrie to request a watering bag.