West Chester Township and OSU Master Gardeners collaborate to restore the Pollinator Garden
The Pollinator Garden at Keehner Park was established in 2012 as an Eagle Scout Project by Joe Catania of Troop 947. He designed, landscaped, and planted the garden by hand, including laying the brick pathways through the middle of the garden. Later, benches were added to provide a place for respite and reflection.
After 13 years, the pathways had deteriorated and the ground became uneven. Under the guidance of Dave Seiwert, the Master Gardeners and the Seiwert Family undertook the job of redoing the pathways. Bricks were removed, the path was re-dug, paver stones and sand were laid, bricks were washed, and then the pavers were finally re-laid. The benches were also placed back into their original positions.
Fostering a Long-Term Partnership with the Master Gardeners
In 2017, the township entered into an agreement with the Ohio State University Extension, Butler County, and its Master Gardener volunteer Program to establish and maintain a Pollinator Garden by the Cabin at Keehner Park. The goal of the project has been to maintain the beauty of the 123-acre park, encourage pollinators, and provide educational opportunities to observe and learn about natural ecosystems.
Most of the Master Gardeners who volunteer at Keehner Park are from the area, helping give back inside their own community. They are involved with the WOLF Program at Keehner Park and have been involved with the West Chester Farmers Market. The township provides the volunteers with resources such as plants, mulch, access to water, and other supplies.
Training to Become a Master Gardener
Master Gardeners is an organization that provides research-based horticultural education and guidance to the public, promoting sustainable gardening practices and enhancing local communities.
There are about 120 Master Gardeners in Butler County. Every year new classes are offered by Ohio State University at the Butler County Extension Office. The training is a nine-week course, with classes held one day per week. The application deadline for this year’s classes is August 27, and classes will run from September 24 to November 19. After that, Master Gardeners will volunteer their time back to the community and continue to learn with additional education hours. No prior experience or skills are necessary to join the Master Gardener Volunteer Program.
To learn more, visit: https://butler.osu.edu/program-areas/master-gardener-volunteers