Shrubscriber seeks to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its urban tree nursery network in Edmonton. The project will explore supply chain models that enable the distribution of seeds and trees to community members and groups.

In December 2024, Shrubscriber received notice that the Edmonton Urban Farm would not be available for the 2025 growing season. With hundreds of trees in the ground, Shrubscriber must relocate (distribute) the trees before May 1st.

This project aims to optimize the distribution and planting of hundreds of trees at the Edmonton Urban Farm while maximizing community engagement and mitigating future risks.

This project will require learners to apply their knowledge of supply chain management, data analysis, and forecasting techniques.

Additional Information:

In 2024, Shrubscriber received a grant from the City of Edmonton to propagate, distribute, and plant one thousand new trees in the inner-city neighbourhood of McCauley.

While the relocation of the Edmonton Urban Farm could be devastating for our organization, we believe that this is an opportunity to codify supply chain models that (1) support Shrubscribers subscription base, (2) build community, and (3) further our goal of local tree planting,

Outcomes & Deliverables:

1. Update inventory systems for the selection of trees.
2. Explore various innovative techniques for the distribution of trees.
3. Leverage tree distribution as a community engagement tool**
4. Relocate hundreds of trees from the Edmonton Urban Farm by the beginning of May.
5. Build sustainable and responsive supply chain tools to predict inventory trends and mitigate future risks.

**Potential Distribution Channels

1. Shrubscribers: Members fund trees via their annual subscription fees. Trees can be distributed to them or community groups.
2. Community Groups: Schools, community gardens & orchards, assisted living facilities, and not-for-profits.
3. McCauley Residents: To fulfill the planting goals of the Cultivate McCauley Grant (1000 tree goal)
4. Online Sales: If any trees remain, they could be sold online or used to encourage new Shrubscriber memberships.