There's still time for volunteers, young and old alike, to sign up for a community tree planting being held tomorrow (May 14) from 9 a.m. to noon.

Organized by the Cochrane Environmental Action Committee (CEAC) in partnership with the Town of Cochrane, approximately 400 trees will be planted. There will also be some cleanup and remediation work completed along the creek.

The planting takes place just southeast of the frisbee golf course in the Riverfront Park. Parking is available in the parking lot accessible from Griffin Rd. and adjacent to the Hwy. 22 bridge. A quick walk east along the asphalt trail will take you to the planting area. Parking is also available along Riverview Dr.

Four specialists will be at the event to provide insight into riparian areas, grasses, trees, and creeks. CEAC president Tim Giese says it's especially a great learning opportunity for youth.

The event goes ahead rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather. Bring gloves and spades for planting, and don't forget to bring your water bottle.

The area by the confluence of the Bighill Creek and Bow River was selected after close consultation with the town. 

Giese says the area is heavily used and in desperate need of restoration.

He says changes are coming to the area that will still allow people to enjoy it.

"The town plans a pathway here and a little bridge. Hopefully, we can keep people out of the creek and out of these bushes."

A 35-member volunteer crew from Garmin did a huge chunk of the work today by planting 1,400 of the 1,800 trees ordered.

Richelle Moore, of the Garmin marketing and communications team, says a major focus of the company this year is social and corporate responsibility.

"This is a perfect fit, and we love helping out the community and being part of it. This is awesome and definitely for years to come we hope to be doing this."

Giese says it wouldn't have been possible to complete all the work planned without their help.

In all, there are $10,000 worth of trees being planted, including aspen, birch, dogwood, spruce, and wild rose, all indigenous to the area.

Organizers are asking people to signup online at Eventbrite at "Cochrane Branches and Banks." Once online, you'll be requested to sign a release and photo release.

You can sign up here.

This is the 24th year of the Branches and Banks. It's returning after a three-year hiatus.

Tree planting map