The garden will help bring native species into the park.  We hope to foster an increase in awareness and respect for the natural environment coexisting with our urban context.  

The green space will serve as a resource for local and migratory visitors.  Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions where they naturally occur. These important plant species provide nectar, pollen, and seeds that serve as food for native butterflies, insects, birds and other animals. Unlike natives, common horticultural plants do not provide the same nutritional value for their visitors and sometimes require insect pest control to survive.

Here are some advantages of using native plants from the US Department of Agriculture:

• Native plants do not require fertilizers and require fewer pesticides than lawns.
• Native plants require less water than lawns and help prevent erosion.
  The deep root systems of many native plants increase the soil's capacity to store water. Native plants can significantly reduce water runoff to our storm sewers.
• Native plants help reduce air pollution:
  Native plantscapes do not require mowing. Excessive carbon from the burning of fossil fuels contributes to global warming. Native plants sequester, or remove, carbon from the air. 
• Native plants provide shelter and food for wildlife.
• Native plants promote biodiversity and stewardship of our natural heritage.