From June 18-24, Sourland Conservancy hosted the Hopewell Elementary graduating fifth graders and their family to commemorate the moment by planting a pollinator meadow.
The families each chose a 30-minute time slot, in order to maintain strict social distancing, to plant in the Foraging Forest in Hopewell Borough Park, which is right next door to their school.
By participating in this project, the graduating fifth graders were able to leave a lasting legacy for families to enjoy for many years to come. Visitors of all ages will find berries, nuts, fruit, leaves, and roots, as well as peace and tranquility, in Simcha’s Garden, according to information provided by the Sourland Conservancy. Pollinators attracted by the flowers we plant will help the native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants produce fruit.
The Foraging Forest is a restoration project that is important for plants and animals, but also for humans who benefit from doing the projects. Areas that are restored are beneficial for all beings that live on this land, from pollinators, soil microbes, birds and humans, according to the statement.
Boy Scouts Sam and Gavin Fowler marked the trail. Hopewell Harvest Fair provided a grant to purchase the plants. The Mercer County Park Commission served as a partner. Helen Corveleyn, HES STEM facilitator, helped coordinate the special project. Sourland Conservancy volunteers staffed the Pollinator Pocket Planting.