2016 Report for Fairmont Park

Year

2016

Number of volunteers

12

Total volunteer hours

64

Number of events

9

Number of trees planted

1

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London Plane

Number of shrubs planted

2

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Holly

Number of perennials planted

18

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shasta daisies, gallardia, purple cone flower, sedum, coreopsis

Yards compost spread

0.30

Summary

Friends of Fairmont Park focused their effort on the space at the top entrance of the Park. Extensive work was done to clear invasive plants, in particular a large Burning Bush to the left of the entrance. Given the space that was opened up, we were then able to plant an Amelanchier which will add to the visual appeal of the space, as well as provide an additional attraction for birds. The process of planting was also quite meaningful to group members, and the tree is an appreciated and consequently well cared for addition to the park. Work was also done to restore existing beds of perennials to the right of the top entrance. We began in the Zinnia bed. Weed removal and planting was also done in the butterfly garden and herb/perennial bed. The butterfly garden is the result of extensive effort over the past few years, and a large point of pride for the group. We discussed the importance of prioritizing this bed at the outset of next year’s season, and perhaps extending the small brick-lined path we installed at the end of the summer. The Park also hosted an Explo day, where work was focused on removing invasive plants along the ecotone between the road and the Community Garden. It was nice to have outside effort for this job, as it is a big project which benefits from a large amount of concentrated effort. Hosting outside volunteer days is a perfect opportunity to take on such tasks, as the core community group prefers to focus on the more visible open spaces of the park. Overall, the Friend of Fairmont Park group members were happy with what they accomplished this season. The top of the park entrance has definitely benefited from their effort, and they look forward to refocusing on stewardship and community engagement next season.