Was so glad to read about an opportunity to write Ecological Restoration grants to create native plant gardens for two public places in Hyde Park, NY last October.

Well, both grants were awarded and over $9,171 has been carefully allocated thanks to Partners for Climate Action, Hudson Valley, a project of The new World Foundation. Working with Avalon Bunge, Ecological Projects Manager for Partners for Climate Action has been a rewarding pleasure.

So – have been busy with planning, paperwork, purchasing, planting, and watering this summer!

On September 13, 2025 during Community Day, the Town Supervisor and Chair, Mary Langenau and myself spoke about the importance of growing native plants at the dedication of Native Plants of Hyde Park Garden at Hackett Hill Park on East Market Street.

The 80’ long x 7’ wide garden bed is complete with native trees, grasses, and a diverse selection to provide a positive habitat for pollinators.

The focus is on plants that offer food, cover, water, and places to raise young – also qualifying as a National Wildlife Federation Wildlife Habitat.

On October 20th the Hyde Park Town Hall Pollinator Garden will be dedicated. Great care and research was done to ensure that 6a native plants would thrive.

The planting beds mainly face east and south and will be beautiful and purposeful gardens for decades to come.

Supporting threatened native pollinators is the continuing goal with an emphasis on providing the nectar that the Karner Blue Butterfly, Monarch, and Swallowtail Butterfly depend on.