 The objectives and purposes of the Environmental Education Garden have not only been met, but have far exceeded our own expectations. The Environmental Education Garden enhances the building and grounds and serves as a dynamic, hands-on learning center for government employees and visitors to the government complex. The native plants, benches, birdbath, trellises, drip irrigation features have all added significantly to the public’s enjoyment and learning experience in the garden.
A Dedication Celebration on April 22, 1999 introduced the Garden to employees from the state government complex and many distinguished guests. Since then, environmental education workshops on various topics such as composting, water conservation, pond construction and maintenance, and water micro-organisms have attracted employees from not only the site location but from regional offices around the state as well. These workshops are each eligible for meeting the criteria for Environmental Education Certification.
Volunteers maintain the garden by weeding, pruning, and planting. Volunteers also helped with constructing trellises, installing the drip irrigation system, and installing the pond. The attraction of the garden with its new benches and tables is evident all day long as employees gravitate to the area—it is the only place within sight that is shaded, colorful, peaceful and fragrant. Reports of birds and butterflies abound. The educational value of the garden is enhanced with plant identification signs and a larger sign that indicates the garden’s educational purpose and complements the structured workshops, which are designed around the garden’s features.
Divisions in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources have partnered with the Office of Environmental Education to use the garden as a teaching tool for state government employees. For example, DENR’s Division of Water Resources purchased and installed drip irrigation in the garden and highlighted the garden as a model for water conservation during the Governor’s Environmental Sustainability Fair in May 2000. Staff from the State Museum of Natural Sciences constructed the on-site pond with a solar fountain. In addition, the Department’s beautification committee plans to install a permanent trellis in the garden.
A bare earth plot that actually covers the top of a concrete parking deck has been transformed into an appealing, educational, attractive and pleasant place. Wildlife--birds, butterflies and even frogs have become a part of this urban landscape.
Individuals have learned the skills entailed with composting, water conservation, wildlife identification, and pond construction. They have also come to appreciate the value of native species.
Employees and other agencies indicate their desire to replicate the garden at their homes and workplaces, and the original planting schematic is in high demand. This demonstration garden has had a positive impact on government employees, school students, teachers, and the general public. |
