Involved in the early days of the University of Guelph Arboretum, as well as plant life at the Toronto Zoo, the efforts of a local green thumb are being celebrated by Guelph Urban Forest Friends (GUFF).
John Ambrose was recently presented with the 2024 Henry Kock Award for tree stewardship.
The award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to the conservation and stewardship of native trees and shrubs especially in the Guelph area and southern Ontario.
Named in honour of Henry Kock, a noted horticulturist, eco-activist and founder of the Elm Recovery Project in Ontario, the award is presented annually to someone who is considered to embody Kock's characteristics of wisdom, integrity and mentorship in their stewardship of trees.
GUFF presented the award to Ambrose during this year’s Arboretum Tree Festival this past Saturday.
In 1974, early in his long career dedicated to the preservation and restoration native trees and woody plants, John joined the newly established University of Guelph Arboretum as curator of botany, a news release explains. In 1991 he left the Arboretum to be curator of botany and manager of horticulture at the Toronto Zoo, from which he retired in 1999.
“The research he conducted and the programs he established over the years form the basis of many important initiatives today. For example, his focus on the rare woody plants of the southern Ontario Carolinian Zone led to the identification and cultivation of trees that can thrive as our climate warms,” explains a GUFF news release.
“Such species as Kentucky coffee, blue ash, red mulberry and eastern redbud were part of his study and now grace many gardens and parks in Guelph and other cities as well as being used to restore natural areas.”
Many Guelph parks feature hop trees donated from Ambrose’s research projects.
“His reach extended all the way to Kew Gardens in London, to which he contributed seed to replace storm-damaged trees,” the release notes.
Ambrose remains active in retirement, participating on several boards and voluntary organizations, “through which he continues to share his expertise and wisdom, to mentor others, advocate for at-risk native tree species and collaborate on new projects such as the Red Mulberry Recovery Group,” it continues.
A tribune event in honour of Ambrose is scheduled for Sept. 24 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arboretum Centre.
