In 2017, several residents approached the Shadow Grass Park HOA Board of Directors to request the redevelopment of an area of Sunshine Park with poor drainage, which was filled with weeds. They suggested creating a garden area with an emphasis on water-wise, pollinator-friendly plants. The HOA Board expressed support for the project, and the Friends of the Pollinator Habitat Committee was established.
The Committee subsequently developed a comprehensive plan for the Shadow Grass Park Pollinator Habitat and applied to the City of Longmont for a grant from the Neighborhood Improvement Fund. The grant was awarded to the HOA in 2019. That summer, hardscape construction was completed, and planting began. The Shadow Grass Park Pollinator Habitat was officially opened on June 20, 2020.
The Shadow Grass Park HOA community was responsible for the project’s success. Volunteers donated more than 300 hours of their time and expertise, from bookkeeping and landscape design to planting and constructing enhancements.
One of the most important components of the project was educating homeowners and visitors about the importance of pollinators to our ecosystem. This is an ongoing effort that includes giving tours, scheduling public bee releases, and other events. Plant identification markers, temporary informational signs, and a Learning Box with educational materials are also being used in the Pollinator Habitat.
Another goal of the project was to showcase plants that require low care and little water. Whenever possible, the Committee purchased PlantSelect® perennials, grasses, and shrubs. PlantSelect® is a nonprofit collaboration (CSU, Denver Botanic Gardens, professional horticulturists) that develops plants proven to thrive in the high plains and intermountain regions. In August of 2020, the Shadow Grass Park Pollinator Habitat was designated as a PlantSelect® Demonstration Garden.
The Shadow Grass Pollinator Habitat is open year-round. We encourage you to visit often to observe the pollinators and the plants that provide them with food, shelter, and nesting sites.