Why a Native Meadow?
Native plants are essential to maintaining biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem. There are currently very few native plants at this location by the Charles River. The area is covered in turf which isn't conducive to biodiversity.
Rehabilitating the area to a native meadow will
1. Increase biodiversity
2. Support vital pollinator populations
3. Provide shelter for birds and other wildlife
4. Sequester carbon (CO2 emissions)
5. Reduces surface flow of water and allow for greater filtration of the soil
6. Most of all, it would serve as an educational tool for all that visit the area on the importance of adding native plants to their gardens
Native meadow plants like Swamp Milkweed and Butterfly Weed support the struggling Monarch butterfly population. According to the National Park Service "More than beautiful, monarch butterflies contribute to the health of our planet. While feeding on nectar, they pollinate many types of wildflowers. Monarch butterflies are also an important food source for birds, small animals, and other insects."
Swamp Milkweed is a vital source of food for Monarch butterfly caterpillars. Not a weed at all, Milkweed is the preferred host plant for Monarch butterfly to lay their eggs. When the caterpillars hatch on the Milkweed they feed on the plant until they are ready to make their chrysalis.
Sunflowers are a favorite source of pollen for bumblebees and seeds for native birds. Bumblebees are crucial to pollinating our fruits and vegetables.
This project is approved by
The Waltham Conservation Commission
Useful resources to help you create your own native plant meadow: