People and Pollinators Enjoy Town Habitats

by Beverly Hunter

Bees and butterflies flitted about on cue on blossoms of native perennials and shrubs, as over 100 people gathered to learn in the Natural Habitats, Nature Trail, and Avon Hall pond restoration. The opening ceremony on Friday June 27 at the entrance to Leggett Lane was officiated by Mayor John Sullivan, and included speakers from the volunteer-based organizations that are creating the native-plant habitats, trails, and pond restoration: Old Rag Master Naturalists, RappFLOW, RLEP.

At podium: Sam Quinn	Native grasses and flowers just now emerging from seed in the buffer area of Avon Hall pond were identified by Sam Quinn, RappFLOW volunteer biologist from the Farm at Sunnyside

The dozens of native species of perennial flowers and shrubs along the nature trail were in tip-top condition, a showcase demonstration of the rich ecosystem that evolves when native plants attract diverse bees and butterflies, other insects, and birds and other wildlife. Jack Price, a leader in the Old Rag Master Naturalists, described characteristics of each species. (photos)