On the western side of Ariel-Foundation Park is a newly created wildflower/pollinator garden. Comprised of 16 acres, development of this section of the park started in 2018 when park leaders came together with the Mount Vernon/Knox County Shade Tree Commission to discuss a greater vision for this area.

The upper rim is now home to an arboretum featuring the 50 native tree species of Ohio. These young trees are growing strong and will soon be an educational destination for area school children and their teachers with learning opportunities focused on nature, tree growth and identification.

With a first planting of more than 50 different wildflower species in the early spring of 2019, the lower "bowl" of the western portion of the park has become a lovely wildflower/pollinator garden. In consulting with Ohio Department of Natural Resources experts, we believe it has the potential to significantly impact populations of birds, bees and butterflies within a 25-mile radius. This area will continue to be groomed and reseeded as necessary with walking paths eventually mowed.

More plans for the future are in the works for this area of the park as well.

We are grateful to the Shade Tree Commission for their continued dedication and support in helping to create a stunning natural area for all to learn about and enjoy!

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