Search Results

Pollinator Pathway Lebanon

Pollinator Pathway Quiet Waters Park Welcome to the Quiet Waters Park Pollinator Pathway! We are a 359 acre park run by the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation & Parks with over one million visitors a year. The Friends of Quiet Waters Park worked with the park to get it on the Pathway as it is a pesticide-free habitat offering meadows of pollinator plants, several planned gardens of native plants, and many acres of forested woodlands. The park borders the South River and Harness Creek with a view of the Chesapeake Bay beyond, beckoning birds and Monarchs to stop and refuel along the Atlantic flyway. Full of native bees, butterflies, other pollinating insects and wildlife, Quiet Waters attracts visitors to walk along its many. trails, exploring nature and our local ecology up close. We hope you will come experience all the beauty of our environment and leave having learned more about the importance of native plants and trees to protecting wildlife and our pollinators. Below five areas of specific appeal to pollinators are highlighted. Gardens at Quiet Waters Park Pathway Reading & Butterfly Gardens The Reading & Butterfly Gardens is an interactive watershed education experience. Featuring environmentally sensitive design solutions, this outdoor classroom includes a rain garden area to filter stormwater runoff. This habitat is replete with native trees, shrubs, grasses and perennials offering nectar and food for insects, larval plants for caterpillars, and shelter for butterflies, moths and bees. There are a variety of berries for birds and a "bee hotel" nearby. Reading nooks provide contemplative spaces for children and adults to enjoy this naturalistic setting. This project was developed in conjunction with Garrett's Light. Pollinator Meadows Currently Quiet Waters Park has two acres of meadows containing numerous stands of milkweed, grasses and other pollinator friendly plants such as Goldenrod, Boneset and Joe-Pye. This area is never mowed. Part of the meadows backs up to a swampy area where Spring Peeper frogs create a loud chorus of song in the Spring. A series of monitored Eastern bluebird nesting boxes are located next to the meadows and 118 babies hatched in 2021! Native Garden in Compost Area Located just beyond our Compost Demonstration Area, these garden beds are maintained by Maryland Master Gardeners. There are numerous beds of carefully labeled native plants. These signs provide information to visitors on the needs and size of each plant, the bloom time, and whether sun or shade is best. The mission is to educate the public on the array of native plants that could be grown in home gardens to help the environment and attract pollinators. The Master Gardeners also periodically demonstrate how to set up and maintain a compost area in backyards. New Pollinator Native Plant Meadow Over the summer of 2021 the horticulturalist, his staff and the Park Rangers began work creating a new two acre meadow from a former open grass field. Turning over the soil multiple times with a tractor (without using any herbicides) prepared the area for planting a winter cover crop of rye seeds. This was then followed by planting an Ernst Seeds Mesic to Dry Native Pollinator mix, including many local ecotype seeds. Three Swamp Oak trees are being planted to help define the area and natural pathways will wind through the meadow, encouraging people to explore the abundance of birds and insects this meadow should start attracting in 2022. Visitor Center Formal Garden The formal garden area lies between the Quiet Waters Park Visitors Center and the Blue Heron Center and is utilized for gatherings and special events. A number of sculptures stand in the center of various beds and there are many benches to sit on and enjoy the view of the gardens, surrounding forest and wide open sky. While a number of the existing plants attract bees, skippers and other insects, the emphasis going forward is to bring in new native trees and shrubs to replace some of the existing non-natives that may be invasive. The best example of this effort was the removal this year of the Bradford Pear trees that were replaced with native Sweet Bay Magnolias. This is a public park and everyone is welcome. Entry is free to walkers; vehicle fee is $6. Join The Pollinator Pathway The Friends of Quiet Waters Park Facebook link and Friends of Quiet Waters Park website: FQWP.org. Our Partners The Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation & Parks and The Friends of Quiet Waters Park catherine@friendsofquietwaterspark.org

Pollinator Pathway Wellesley The Wellesley Natural Resources Commission is launching a Pollinator Pathway Project to create inter-connected pollinator habitat paths of native gardens on town lands, private gardens, schools, houses of worship, and businesses. All are welcome to join, regardless of gardening ability! Watch this space for more information and events in the coming months. Expanding Pollinator Pathways benefits everyone. The process of creating pollinator friendly habits can also contribute to reduced costs of mowing, better air quality, lower noise levels, more water conservation, improved infiltration, and healthier environment for people and pets. The NRC hosted one of three demonstration gardens in Massachusetts as part of a grant from Pollinate New England, an initiative of New England Wild Flower Society (NEWFS). In June 2018, town volunteers and staff from the NRC and Dept. of Public Works participated in two educational programs to learn how to help these critical species. The main takeaway of the day: we should be planting more native plants in our open spaces and private yards! Anchor Gardens Wellesley Police Department A pollinator garden in front of the Wellesley Police Department is helping feed and house local birds, bees and other insects that pollinate our plants. These species are vital to our food supply because they ensure healthy crops. Join The Pollinator Pathway The NRC’s Grow Green Wellesley Initiative is intended to inspire our community to use eco-friendly landscaping methods to protect our health and environment. The town of Wellesley currently maintains all public land - including schools and playing fields - without harmful chemicals, and emphasizes native plants to create biodiversity in town. Through town-wide events and activities and collaboration with other town departments, the Grow Green Wellesley Initiative promotes education on topics such as natural landscaping, organic lawn care, planting for pollinators, composting, storm water management and more.

Pollinator Pathway Greenwich

Pollinator Pathway Bow Daisy Troop 63228 has taken the initiative to raise awareness of the importance of pollinator gardens in our town. Reach out to bow.pollinators@gmail.com for more information. Join the Pollinator Pathway Partners The Bow garden club bow.pollinators@gmail.com

Pollinator Pathway Kensington

Pollinator Pathway New Haven Welcome to the New Haven Pollinator Pathway. We are a network of pollinator gardens and community organizations promoting native plants, community gardens, greenspace and more. Doreen Abubakar is the founder and executive director of Community Place-making Engagement Network (CPEN) and organizer of New Haven’s Pollinator Pathway. CPEN is transforming vacant lots in New Haven, CT into gardens where teens propagate, grow, and sell pollinator- and bird- friendly native plants and vegetables. CPEN has launched two initiatives: the Native Urbanscapes Nursery project and the 4x4 Urban Salad Garden Kits for Newhallville residents, a food insecure neighborhood. With the garden kits, families receive everything they need to learn how to grow their own vegetables and eat healthier foods. CPEN Events and Projects All Things Pollinator Event Urbanscapes Native Plant Nursery 144 Hazel Street, New Haven, CT June 15 and Oct. 26 10AM-1PM (Rain dates: June 16 and Oct. 27 1:00-4:00 Note time change for rain dates) Spring- CPEN (Community Placemaking Engagement Network), Menunkatuck Audubon, Highstead (Ecotype Project), Audubon Connecticut (Robin), Pollinator Pathway, Victor DeMasi -Butterflies in My Backyard, Xerces Society, WildOnes, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station Fall- CPEN (Community Placemaking Engagement Network), Menunkatuck Audubon, Highstead (Ecotype Project), Audubon Connecticut (Jillian), Pollinator Pathway, Victor DeMasi -Butterflies in My Backyard, Xerces, WildOnes, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, Yale Peabody- Jim Sirch What are the goals of All Things Pollinator Event? - Create a place for people to learn about plants and pollinators. - Provide education, resources and information and expand awareness and audience of CPEN and Urbanscapes Native Plant Nursery Who is invited to the event? - The local neighborhood and nursery customers from other areas - Young people who want to learn about the environment UrbanScapes Native Plant Nursery 133 Hazel St, New Haven CT CPEN along with the local Menunkatuck Audubon Society received an Audubon in Action Grant in 2020 to create a native plant nursery on one of the vacant lots at the intersection. During the pandemic, they started a pilot program, growing about 300 perennials and shrubs to sell or give away. The Urbanscapes Native Plant Nursery , New Haven’s only native plant nursery, was born. Since then, the nursery has blossomed and in 2024, in addition to growing 3,000 native plants from plugs and 600 native shrubs, volunteers are growing trees and salt marsh plants to use in a local marsh restoration project. The nursery is open for sales to anyone interested in native plants. You can visit UrbanScapes Native Plant Nursery on Saturdays 9:30 - 12:30 at 133 Hazel St in New Haven , or go to menunkatuck.org to view plant selections and place online orders for pick-up. CPEN 4x4 Urban Salad Garden Kits CPEN has launched a project to male 4x4 Urban Salad Garden Kits available for Newhallville residents, a food insecure neighborhood. With the garden kits, families receive everything they need to learn how to grow their own vegetables and eat healthier foods. Join The Pollinator Pathway Partner Organizations Urbanscapes Native Plant Nursery, CPEN, CT Audobon, Neighborhood Housing Services, Highstead, and the New Haven Free Public Library, For more information email us at doreenabubakar@gmail.com

Pollinator Pathway Wilmington

Pollinator Pathway Barrington Bees, birds, and other pollinators are declining in alarming numbers all over the world. Suburban lawns, with their non-native grasses and ornamental plants which are maintained using chemical pesticides and fertilizers, are a virtual desert for pollinators. The Barrington Pollinator Pathway project was started to encourage people to plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers in their yards and to forego the use of pesticides. It doesn't matter how small your garden is - every native tree, shrub, and flower helps! If you live in Barrington, we hope you'll join us and be part of the Barrington Pollinator Pathway. Our goal is to have as many pollinator friendly yards and public spaces as we can. Photo Credit: Karen Weber Photo Credit: Karen Weber Photo Credit: Karen Weber Clara Marshall Garden Barrington Town Hall, 283 County Road, Barrington, RI Pollinator garden with native shrubs and flowers maintained by Hameho Garden Club Join The Pollinator Pathway Learn more on our Facebook page FB@barringtonlandtrust Partner The Barrington Pollinator Pathway is an initiative started by the Barrington Land Conservation Trust. Contact us at pollinatorpathways@blct.org

Pollinator Pathway Windsor Two monarch habitats were planted in 2016 along Riverwalk a conserved area of land running along the Farmington river . Since then more habitats have cropped up over town including a couple at local elementary schools as well as one at Windsor Ace. Residents have joined in through the encouragement of The Windsor Monarch Project to plant habitats in their own backyard! Town Garden Riverwalk Windsor, CT Join The Pollinator Pathway To learn more about The Windsor Monarch Project please contact First Town Downtown Director 860-247-8982 or Suzanne Urban 860-8508515. Partner The Windsor Monarch Project suzanneurbandesigns@gmail.com

Pollinator Pathway Northport

Pollinator Pathway Groton Nestled in the heart of Middlesex County, Massachusetts, Groton is a charming town that epitomizes the quintessential New England experience. With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and tight-knit community, Groton is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of tradition and tranquility. Founded in 1655, Groton boasts a deep historical heritage that is evident in its well-preserved colonial architecture and historic sites. The town played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War and is home to the Groton Historical Society, which works tirelessly to preserve and celebrate the town's past. Notable landmarks include the Groton School, an esteemed private institution established in 1884, and the Old Burying Ground, which offers a glimpse into the lives of Groton’s early settlers. Groton is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and serene lakes. The town's commitment to preserving its open spaces is reflected in its numerous parks and conservation areas. The Nashua River Rail Trail, a popular destination for hiking, biking, and nature walks, runs through Groton, offering stunning views of the Nashua River and surrounding landscapes. For those who enjoy a leisurely day outdoors, the town’s parks, such as Lawrence Memorial Park and the Groton Town Forest, provide ample opportunities for picnicking, bird-watching, and exploring nature. The picturesque setting makes Groton a perfect spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Four Corners Traffic Island Intersection of Route 119 and Route 225 Planted on state-owned land in May 2014. The Groton DPW assisted the Groton Garden Club by adding twelve inches of soil to the traffic island enabling the planting to begin. Initially planted with bulbs, daylilies, cone flowers, junipers, grasses, iris and sedums. The plant list has changed over the years to include many more native plants. Carol Wheeler Memorial Park West Main Street and Townsend Road, West Groton, MA 01450 The Carol Wheeler Memorial Park, next to the Squannacook River in West Groton Village, was created in 2001. Carol Wheeler was a soldier from West Groton who died in combat in 1952 during the Korean War. The park was dedicated to him in 2004. In 2019, Groton Garden Club received permission from the Parks Commission to maintain the front section of the park near the memorial stone and along West Main Street. A major effort was undertaken to clean out and replant the sections along Townsend Road and in front of the planter to create a pollinator garden. Native Plant Garden at Town Hall 173 Main Street, Groton, MA 01450 This garden was planted at Groton Town Hall in 2021 to provide members of Groton Garden Club the opportunity to use native plants in a public setting. The Club uses this garden to see how these plants perform in Groton and to help us understand the significance native plants have in supporting wildlife and enhancing our ecosystem as well as providing a beautiful garden for the town. The garden is maintained and evaluated by the Club for beauty and performance. The objective is to encourage residents to incorporate these plants into their own gardens. In 2024, native strawberry plants were added under the elm tree as an example of hardy ground cover that can serve as a low-maintenance lawn alternative. Plant List: Culver's Root - Veronicastrum virginicum New England Aster - Symphyotichum novae-angliae Showy Goldenrod - Solidago speciosa Bergamot - Monarda fistulosa Golden Alexander - Zizia aurea Butterfly Weed - Asclepius tuberosa Little Bluestem - Schizchyrium scoparium Prairie Dropseed - Sporobolus heterolepis Lupine - Lupinus perennis Smooth Penstemon - Penstemon digitalis Brown Eyed Susan - Rudbeckia triloba Hoary Mountain Mint - Pyncnanthemum Incanum Dotted Mint - Monarda punctata Orange Coneflower - Rudbeckia fulgida Anise Hyssop - Agastache foeniculum Pussytoes - Antennaria plantaginfolia New York Ironweed - Veronia noveboracensis New England Blazing Star - Liatris novae-angliae Thread Leaf Coreopsis - Coreopsis verticillata Wild Strawberry - Fragaria virginiana Join The Pollinator Pathway Groton Pollinator Pathway Partners