Please join us for two upcoming cleanup mornings as we give a little care to the ponds and edges that quietly care for us back.
These places are more than drainage features. They are living systems that support biodiversity, cleaner water, and a healthier neighborhood for people and wildlife alike. Every now and then, even an otter reminds us that our interests and the interests of the wild can line up just fine. What we are after here is simple enough: natural, beautiful, and delicious. Hard to argue with that.
Saturday, April 25
Bright Court Pond
Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the gazebo beside Bright Court Playground
Saturday, May 9
Pond across from Pinebrook
Starts at 10:00 a.m
Both cleanups usually last two hours or less, depending on how much trash and energy we have left. Gloves, tools, and trash bags will be provided. Pinebrook volunteers are warmly invited for the May 9 cleanup, and we will also ask representatives from Advantage, our landscaper, to come walk with us. Everyone who wants to help is welcome.
There are already good signs. The blueberries behind Bright Court Playground are greening up. The mulberries and cherries planted last season look strong. The persimmons around Destiny Pond could use some thought, and maybe a couple of neighbors. Nearer to Pinebrook, we are thinking about hazelnuts and possibly some passionflower too.
And here is a friendly challenge for the neighborhood: plenty of people have pretty yards. But who has the prettiest native yard?
For anyone looking for inspiration, the Virginia Native Plant Society has a helpful nursery list here:
https://vnps.org/native-plant-nursery-list/
If you need volunteer hours, we are happy to help document them. We hope to see you there.