Between cloud bursts, work is back on track this summer for the completion of the Heritage Garden.
The Badlands Community Garden Society has been diligently working on the park, commonly known as PetroCanada Park, creating a downtown green space that will allow residents and visitors to reflect, and enjoy, as well as learn about native species of plants and xeriscaping.
Last summer, with design in hand they began working on the garden. This summer, armed with volunteers as well as a Community Initiatives Program (CIP) grant, they plan on making the vision a reality.
Last fall the society learned it would be receiving a CIP grant for about $31,000 from the Government of Alberta. This grant has allowed them to hire two students to work on the project over the summer as well as allow it to buy what it needs to complete the garden.
So far the project has been community led and volunteer initiative. Chris Marion of the Badlands Community Garden Association says that often while they are working away on the site, residents will just show up to lend a hand in whatever capacity they can.
“The process is just as important,” said Marion. “It’s about involving the community in the building.”
She adds that if the community is involved it will build a feeling of pride and stewardship.
The garden is more than just pretty flowers. Each component is planned to make a usable, enjoyable space.
Xeriscaping is the practice of landscaping that reduces or eliminates irrigation. Often this is accomplished through using native plant species that thrive on what nature provides. This garden showcases natural species, demonstrating different types of plant ecologies.
It will be user friendly with wide boardwalks accommodate everyone. Some of the features will include a picnic area and pergola.
Watch this summer as the park takes shape, or better yet, get involved. www.badlandsgardens.ca posts when and where work bees are and how to get involved.