Kenny Chaplin is determined to reclaim his Guinness World Record for the most trees planted by an individual within 24 hours. Initially earning the title in 2001 by planting 15,170 trees near Prince Albert, Sask., Chaplin held onto the record for two decades until it was surpassed by a competitor. Now, his goal is to secure the title once again.
To achieve this, Chaplin plans to transform a flat field near Buena Vista, Sask., located approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Regina, into a budding forest within the timeframe of 8 a.m. CST on June 30 to 8 a.m. CST on July 1. Expressing his excitement, Chaplin shared with CBC Saskatchewan, “It’s just really cool to walk through your own forest. I’m really looking forward to this challenge. It will be quite thrilling if I can plant 24,000 trees in 24 hours. That’s the target.”
Reflecting on his previous record-breaking accomplishment, Chaplin takes pride in seeing the trees he planted then now flourishing as tall specimens. He envisions the jack pine seedlings he will plant this year evolving into a mature forest, serving as a communal space for the village of Buena Vista in the future.
With aspirations for the planted trees to form pathways for locals to enjoy walking their dogs and spending quality time with their families, Chaplin envisions a picturesque landscape taking shape over the years. Acknowledging the current record holder, Antoine Moses, who planted 23,060 trees in La Crete, Alberta, on July 17, 2021, Chaplin noted the evolution of the competition in tree planting.
For his upcoming endeavor, Chaplin will be assisted by his twin brother and a team of volunteers who will act as witnesses for the record attempt. Highlighting the meticulous planning involved, Chaplin stated, “I hire independent professionals to be witnesses, like a forester, arborist, and botanist, who make witness statements for Guinness. Additionally, I have three cameras set up to ensure every tree is planted correctly.”
David Tonken, president of Let’s Plant Trees Ltd., described Chaplin’s record attempt as a “massive effort,” emphasizing the significance of tree planting in rehabilitating forests and the discipline it instills in individuals.