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The idea for the Woodland
Gardens at Birdsacre Wildlife Sanctuary began in 1997 with a
proposal by the Master Gardeners of Hancock County Extension
Office to build a wheelchair accessible boardwalk around a
micro-habitat which represents the diverse habitats found throughout
the 200 acre sanctuary.
Stan Richmond, President of Birdsacre, Inc. endorsed the plan to
establish a garden that would:
- provide
universal accessibility for visitors to the garden with opportunities to enjoy nature
–flora and fauna (particularly birds) and to find solitude
within the preserve.
- utilize
native plant species attractive to birds.
- promote
educational awareness of Maine's natural resources
- provide
opportunities for community members to support, use, and assist in
maintaining the garden
The
diverse environments
along the boardwalk include: a woodland meadow, ledges, evergreen
forest, fern and moss gardens, brook and a bog.
The
540’ boardwalk was built over three seasons. (1999-2001).
Built to ADA standards, the boardwalk is a place where visitors can
identify plants, listen to birds, find solitude on the edge of a
bustling town, and learn the important role native plants play in the
natural environment.
Other
work undertaken by the Master Gardener Volunteers since the project
began:
- Yearly
cleanup, weeding, pruning, and planting
- Collaborating
with various community groups in maintaining the gardens.
- Creating
an initial plant inventory
- Producing
colored pencil plant illustrations for future signage
- Creating
a plant photo identification board for the Visitor Center
- Developing
a brochure about the Woodlands Gardens
- Providing
educational guided walks along the boardwalk
- Participating
in Cordelia Stanwood Day
- Revitalizing
the Cottage Garden at
the Stanwood Museum
- Developing
this web-site
Through
conservation and enhancement of existing species, selective
cutting,planting and appropriate signage, the gardens have become a
source of enjoyment for all people and a valued resource for the
community. Master Gardener Volunteers will continue to work with the
Birdsacre staff in developing other aspects of the garden that fit into
the site's overall educational program goals.
Learn
more about becoming a Hancock County Master Gardener or volunteering at the Woodland or
Cottage Gardens.
The
Master Gardener Program is a national program of trained volunteers who
work in partnership with their county Cooperative Extension Office to
extend educational outreach throughout their community by providing
home gardeners with research-based information. Check out the programs
in your state today! Learn more about the Master Gardener programs in Maine
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