2 minute read
NATIVE PLANTS SHOWCASED
The public sentiment toward native plantings is changing as the environmental promise of these more natural species is better understood. Native plantings may look less groomed, but they support a whole array of insect and birds species; and are less reliant on chemicals and even water in the long-term.
Check out a few great examples of native and pollinator gardens/ spaces in the community:
West Chester History Center on Station Road – Newly planted native garden is also designed to be interpretive of our history with a bison, wind mill and gathering space. The garden was just added in 2024 and will continue to grow.
Keehner Park Cabin-in-the-Clearing Garden – Butler County Master Gardeners maintains the small garden near the cabin focusing on pollinator plants.
Christ the King Lutheran Church on Dimmick Road, a pollinator garden focused on Monarch butterflies. They host a MonarchFest each June to educate and promote native planting.
Rialto Road Project and Ellis Lakes – West Chester partners with several conservancy groups and Butler County MetroParks to support restoration of property across from the power sub-station on Rialto Road and other properties, accessible from Firebird Lane along the Mill Creek toward the western boundaries of the community. These natural wetlands are preserved through the state’s Clean Ohio Fund.
Butler County MetroParks, Voice of America MetroPark – Portions of Voice of America MetroPark remain important birding areas due to the preservation of natural plant material
Beckett Park West – Plantings around the lakes on the westside of Beckett Park are designed to encourage the natural environment and serve as habitat.
