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Centennial Wildlife
Habitat Garden
Watch Our Garden Grow !
A recent project at the refuge
began in the spring of 2002 - the transformation of our headquarters lawn
into an oasis for birds and butterflies. With the establishment of the
"Centennial Wildlife Habitat Garden", visitors to the refuge
can now learn about native
trees, shrubs, and flowers that they can plant in their own
back yard that provide food and shelter to birds and butterflies. Refuge
Manager Libby Herland secured a $5,000 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service which is being matched by cash donations, discounts from local
nurseries, and the effort of volunteers to plan and build this garden.
The garden will be completed this year, and is named to recognize the
100th anniversary of the National Wildlife Refuge System which is also
in 2003. |
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| Credit: USFWS |
| Centennial Garden "Before" |
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| Credit: USFWS |
| Centennial Garden Volunteers |
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| Big thanks go Vernon resident Dennnis
Miranda who provided the design and the impetus for the garden. We also thank
the Vernon Civic Association, local businessman Gene Mulvihill, Kuperus Farmside
Gardens, Katterman's and Fair Acres Farm who have contributed financially
to this project. Thanks also to our great volunteers who are digging, weeding
and sweating as we make our garden a reality. |
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| Credit: USFWS |
| Centennial Garden Volunteer |
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| Credit: USFWS |
| Centennial Garden "During" |
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| In
addition to plants, the garden now features an arbor built by Eagle Scout
Candidate Chris Ball and three wooden benches built by Eagle Scout Candidate
Mike Mezejewski. At a later date, bird houses, bird feeders, and a bird
bath will be added. About 90% of the work involved in this garden is being
done by volunteers, and we need more. If you want to volunteer, please call
the refuge office. |
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Last updated:
November 12, 2008
