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The Race Walk |
At the direction of, and support from, David Culp, (https://www.davidlculp.com/), efforts are underway to preserve the southern section of the mill’s race by its transformation to the “Race Walk.”
This new garden, “The Race Walk,” is to show that ecology and aesthetics can be merged to create a very attractive ornamental garden experience for park visitors. Sustainability is key as the park’s gardens are maintained by volunteers. The plants selected for The Race Walk present a variety of plants, a variety of habitats and plant communities.
Race Walk Flowers - Spring 2023 |
The Race Walk is also an effective rain garden. Many, if not all, new developments are required to have retention basins. The Race Walk will be a perfect example for residents by showing that these basins can be attractive and beneficial rather than populated by non-native plants like Phragmites. The slope on the uphill side of the race is steep so this section might be described better as an example of a wall garden. Because of its location along one of the most well used trails in the park, it will be seen by all park visitors. This garden will be handicap accessible.
Many, many thanks to the Chester County Beekeepers Association and the Hardy Plant Society for providing funds for the plantings in the Race Walk.
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The Race - In the Past - Courtesy of Jeff Nye & Others
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