Village of Westmont
Date Issued: September 9, 2016
For the last few years, Clarendon Hills and the Village of Westmont have been working together on the Richmond Education Garden project. This is a unique project which will provide educational and programming opportunities for residents throughout the area. With the recent receipt of a $10K grant from ComEd, the project continues to move forward in its development.
“At the core of this project, we want to stimulate enthusiasm in people regarding the importance of our environment,” said Dan Ungerleider, Economic Development Director for Clarendon Hills. “I want to personally thank all the people who have been helping with this project, and at the same time, encourage residents who are curious about the Richmond Garden to reach out and assist with the project as we move forward.”
At this point in time, more than $60,000 has been committed to the project. Initial garden layouts have been reviewed and an updated design is expected by the end of September.
The project will feature environmental education opportunities for area residents and students. “We’re excited about the developing curriculum for the project,” said Westmont Environmental Improvement Commissioner Erin Kennedy, who also works with Scarce. “We already have some momentum from AP students at Hinsdale High School as well as a recent project completed by a local Eagle Scout.”
A number of unique features have been proposed for the project including a working rain garden, rain barrel education, an example of a green roof, a hugelkultur, bioswale, native plantings, raised production planters, outdoor classroom area, apiary, and more. An educational curriculum for the garden is being developed by project volunteers and local schools. Additionally, the project is working with the Scarce organization to develop educational materials.
“The Village of Westmont is excited about this project and partnering with Clarendon Hills to create Richmond Gardens,” said Jill Ziegler Westmont Community Development Director. “The hands-on experience will provide students of all ages opportunities to learn about biodiversity and the importance of pollinators for our food systems.”
On Oct. 10, there will be a fundraiser for the Richmond Education Garden project at Chipotle Mexican Grill, 300 E. Ogden in Westmont, to support the Richmond Education Gardens & Apiary project. Come to Chipotle between 4:00 and 8:00 p.m. and either show them the event flyer or tell the cashier that you are supporting the cause, and Chipotle will give 50% of the proceeds to the Richmond Education Gardens & Apiary.
Citizens can also support the project by going to zazzle.com and searching Richmond Education Garden. A variety of products including coffee mugs and stamps are available for purchase with proceeds going to the project.
For more information on this project, please visit:
www.clarendonhills.us/170/Richmond-Education-Gardens
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Contact: Larry McIntyre
Village of Westmont Communications Director
630-417-0280, lmcintyre@westmont.il.gov
