Jim Irving, JK Irving and Robert Irving (l-r) at the ceremony for the company’s one billionth tree planted
New Brunswick’s J.D. Irving Ltd (JDI) celebrated this summer as the company planted its one billionth tree since 1957. The tree was planted by Chairman James K. (JK) Irving who was joined by his sons Jim and Robert who both serve as co-CEOs of the company, and was observed by over 400 employees and retirees. A commemorative rock with an inscription was also unveiled.
The JDI tree planting program goes back to 3000 trees planted in Black Brook, NB, in 1957. The following year, the company started a tree nursery in Juniper, NB. By 1968 they had planted four million trees and in 1986 the late K.C. Irving planted the 200 millionth tree. The company plants 20 million trees per year.
“I want to thank everyone — past and present who played a part in achieving this great milestone. It has been a very rewarding journey to see these trees planted,” said JK Irving in a media release. “From the very beginning we’ve always seen caring for the forest as an important responsibility. This commitment goes back generations and continues today.”
— Matt Jones