Chapters in Minnesota

Over the past 3–4 years, this suburban yard has been gradually transformed into a diverse native plant landscape, largely grown from winter-sown plants. About half of the front yard now features native plantings, including a 12×18’ tapestry lawn installed with support from a Lawns to Legumes grant.

In the larger backyard, roughly one-third of the space has been converted into multiple native planting beds connected by mulched paths. New trees—including white swamp oak, serviceberry, and chokecherry—add structure, while former lawn and garden areas continue to evolve with native flowers. The landscape also incorporates raised vegetable beds, blending habitat-focused gardening with edible plantings.

Join us for the grand unveiling of the newly installed native garden at Hiawatha Elementary School! In the spring of 2026, Hiawatha's second grade team planted nearly 300 native plants across three classroom garden spaces thanks to funding from the Wild Ones "Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education Program and support from Wild Ones Twin Cities Chapter volunteers. This event will provide attendees with the opportunity to tour a native school garden in its first year of growth, and to meet with members of the volunteer garden team that made this project possible.

6:30 pm inside, 7 - 8 pm outside

Chapter tour, free & open to the public. 

The project is a joint effort between St. Louis County and City Of Duluth, funded almost entirely by state and federal grants.  It removes sand and other pollutants from runoff generated by over 100 acres of streets, businesses and residential neighborhoods and helps to support base flow to a trout stream   Almost 20% of the project budget was used to remove existing invasive, vegetation and to establish new native vegetation in and around the basins.

Carol Andrews, recently retired Public Works environmental engineer, will present a short overview inside, then join her for a walking tour of the site. The gravel paths are fairly level with native plantings everywhere.  Lots to explore & identify.

Dress for the weather & bugs (including light rain.) No alternate rain date