The Native Garden Story

     This is to conserve and preserve native species of wildflowers and grasses and thereby contribute to the welfare of migrating birds and wildlife. It will also hold in reserve a small piece of land and plants that make Henry County unique.  With benches and meandering path it is hoped it will be a place of solitude and reflection without city distractions and yet a feeling of community. With adjacent farms, homes and the graveyard nearby, it may serve as a humbling and yet renewing point of view. The project will pass from one graduating group of gardeners to the next as a living trust. Donations of wildflowers, native grasses, and native species of trees, bird nesting boxes or moneys to construct or purchase items are welcome. Public strolling is encouraged without cost. Guided tours of the property are available for a small fee. These tours include plant and wildlife identification and delightful companionship.

       Spring of 2010 will see the planting of 50 trees along the Van Hyning Creek which borders the property to the east. The County Engineer’s office is restoring a section of watershed area as mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This will place this particular section of the Native Garden under Federal protection. The local MG group may develop and enhance the native attributes of the property without interference. The County Engineer’s office will label, flag, and follow the progress of the trees for five years. This is to insure that they thrive.

       If interested in contributing to the project, for directions to access the property or for guided tours contact OSU Extension, Master Gardener program of Henry County  419-592-0806