Activity Guide Spring/Summer 2018 | Page 77

A Greener GLEN ELLYN The Glen Ellyn Park District is dedicated to helping sustain plant life for future generations by protecting and restoring indigenous natural communities such as prairies, woodlands and wetlands. Restoration projects at the Park District are primarily focused on the removal of invasive non-native plants and reintroducing native trees and plants. In 2017: Six prescribed burns were performed in our parks to stimulates growth of native plants and grasses while reducing invasive trees and non- native, weedy plant species. The District worked with contractors to seed 2.7 acres at Maryknoll Park that is being converted from turf into a native short-stature prairie! Around 1,300 native plants were planted within the woodland restoration zone at Lake Ellyn Park. Over 400 wetland plants were planted and seeds were spread in a degraded retention area at Ackerman Park. Staff worked with School District 41 on three different problem-based learning projects related to natural resources. The District passed the Monarch Resolution to create and promote practices that will provide habitat for this vulnerable species. A native plant sale was offered at Earth Day, which enabled many residents the opportunity to secure plants not normally found at traditional garden centers. Staff helped organize the local DuPage River Sweep effort, a county-wide program coordinated by The Conservation Foundation to clean local rivers and waterways. The District partnered to offer two workshops on improving sustainability at home, a rain barrel sale, and a sustainable garden tour featuring Glen Ellyn homes. Visit www.gepark.org/go-green or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to learn more about how you can help create a “Greener Glen Ellyn.” 77