The second phase of Grey County’s lawn naturalization project at the administration office in Owen Sound is now complete.
On Sept. 13, dozens of volunteers and community members joined county elected officials and staff at the second planting event which saw a rain garden added to the front of the property. Protecting and expanding natural assets is the first action of Going Green in Grey, the county’s climate change action plan.
Naturalization projects and planting events are a great education tool and a way to improve pollinator habitats and involve the community in climate action, states a news release from the county.
“We’re here today to continue our efforts to naturalize the county administration property by turning this outdated, traditional lawn into something much more eco-friendly, vibrant, and beautiful,” said Grey County Warden Brian Milne in the news release.
The new rain garden is located at the corner of 9th Ave E and 6th St. East. Participants planted shrubs such as Buttonbush and Red Osier Dogwood and perennial plants such as Sweetgrass, Cardinal Flowers and Black Eyed Susans. This area is located at the base of the hill and receives high amounts of water and moisture runoff from the area. The garden will help to naturally transport, filter, and recharge stormwater runoff.
Next steps in the lawn transformation include planting more trees and creating new pollinator-friendly gardens.
The lawn naturalization project is being heavily supported by NeighbourWoods North, a local community volunteer group dedicated to educating the public about the benefits and challenges of urban forestry.
“We’re incredibly thankful for the knowledge, skills and passion the folks at NeighbourWoods North are contributing to this project,” said Warden Milne.
Here's more from Grey County's news release on the rain garden:
"Transforming the lawn is a small, but symbolic part of Going Green in Grey. Grey County is leading by example, setting ambitious goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from county operations by 40 per cent by 2030, and reaching net-zero emissions by 2045. Grey County council approved Going Green in Grey in 2022. The plan was developed in consultation with stakeholders from a variety of sectors and hundreds of residents who shared their time, ideas and expertise. Implementing nature-based solutions, such as rain gardens, is a key part of this plan. Going Green in Grey can be viewed in its entirety at the website here."
