Pollinator Gardens Added To Heritage Park and Ridge Road Park

Canton Township is pleased to announce the addition of pollinator gardens in Heritage Park and Ridge Road Park. Under the guidance of Creating Habitats for Pollinators, the majority of volunteers from Community Financial Credit Union and the Dartmouth Alumni of Detroit/NW Ohio teamed up to plant native grasses and plants to help give bees and other pollinators a place to thrive in these two Canton parks.

Site preparation began several months ago when Canton Parks staff cordoned off half-acre sections in each park, removing rocks and debris, as well as plowing the soil several times over. Next, dedicated volunteers helped transform these future pollinator habitats by tilling the area before planting a variety of native grasses, wildflowers, and other plants.

"Butterflies and bees need plenty of native, flowering plants to thrive," said Abe Vinitski, Canton Parks Supervisor. "By increasing the amount of dedicated habitat for these pollinating insects, we hope to add nesting sites that are critical to their survival, as well as serve as inspiration to others to add pollinator habitats in their yards."

Pollinator gardens are designed to attract bees, butterflies, moths, flies, beetles, bats, as well as hummingbirds. These animals perform the crucial ecosystem service of pollination, making it possible for our food and flowers to grow. A pollinator garden can have a positive impact on these important insects and small mammals.

Heritage Park, located just west of the Canton Administrative Office at 1150 S. Canton Center, Canton, MI 48188, is one of Canton's premier parks, where visitors can enjoy 105 acres of green space, including: two playscapes, a splash pad, four pavilions, a picturesque gazebo, two large ponds, walking tracks, an amphitheater, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, a sand volleyball court, fishing area, and much more.

Ridge Road Park, located on the northwest corner of Ford and Ridge Roads, is currently comprised of 134 acres of undeveloped land where visitors to this rustic park can take advantage of a half-mile crushed gravel trail, during park hours from dawn until dusk. Visitors should note that overnight parking is not allowed, and no lighting has been installed. In addition, no winter maintenance will be provided.

For more information about Heritage Park and Ridge Road Park amenities or any Canton Park, visit www.cantonfun.org or call 734/394-5460.