New Volunteers Bring Beauty and Care to Rain Gardens

June 2024 has been an exciting time for our Rain Garden Workgroup, as we continue to gain new volunteers dedicated to revitalizing rain gardens that have suffered from neglect.

This year has been particularly successful, with volunteers expressing immense pride and pleasure in their efforts. Many residents, while out walking their dogs, children, or just themselves, have stopped to thank our volunteers for the remarkable improvements they’ve made to these well-known neighborhood gardens. There’s a shared sense of relief and joy that these gardens, filled with potential, have finally found caretakers.

The rain gardens of Stillwater are far from "cookie-cutter" assemblages of plants. Each garden has its unique character, and two of our newest volunteers, Christie Rosckes and Caroline Groble, have been instrumental in maintaining large gardens on the west side of Owens Street S. at the Pine Street W. intersection. The crowning glory of these gardens are the hedges of Rugosa Rose that line both sides of the road. These roses are renowned for their powerful perfume, a scent unlike any other. Although not native to the New World, they originate from Asia—specifically China and Japan.

Rugosa Rose

Christie and Caroline have shared beautiful photos of the June blooms in these rain gardens, showcasing the vibrant life that flourishes under their care. Their dedication and teamwork are inspiring, and we look forward to seeing their future plans unfold.

Thank you to all our volunteers for your continued efforts and passion. Your work not only enhances our community’s natural beauty but also brings us together in shared appreciation and responsibility for our environment.

Report from Ruth Alliband, Rain Garden Workgroup Leader