On the afternoon of Friday, April 4 Chapman Park conducted a controlled burn in a large, empty section of the property. The park was closed for several hours throughout the process. The Western Lakes Fire District helmed the project, ensuring safety and efficiency while maintaining a strong presence at the scene. In total, roughly 3 acres of land were subject to the controlled fire. The Oconomowoc Parks Department and the Oconomowoc Economic Development organizations anticipate eventually using the space as a pollinator garden area.
Controlled burns can be very helpful in the creation of new gardens. Clearing out old vegetation is an essential part of allowing new plants to grow. Controlled burns can help remove invasive species that may be harmful to native, more favorable species of plants. Additionally, dead shrubbery can be cleared so that pollinated plants have the ability to spread out and multiply.
Controlled burns also help improve the quality of the soil. The break down of organic materials creates a dense, nutrient rich landscape. This allows for a more diverse population of plants to grow in a natural habitat that they might not have been able to thrive in before. Biodiversity is a key part to creating pollinator gardens, as having various species of plants may attract different animals to the garden. For example, milkweed is a nectar producing plant that often attracts butterflies.
Pollinator gardens can be extremely helpful in creating and maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Chapman Park’s new pollinator garden is expected to attract several creatures such as hummingbirds, butterflies, birds, moths, and bees. These gardens often contain vegetation that produces nectar. The nectar serves as a source of stable food for these creatures, meaning that they will likely stay nearby and help pollinate other local gardens and outdoor spaces.
The new garden will be a welcome addition to Chapman Park’s 18-acre space. The beloved Oconomowoc park gets its name from Attorney Bill Chapman, who was known for his passion and service within the community. At the entrance to the park is a bronze bust of Chapman that pays tribute to all of the hard work and effort he put into the area throughout his life. Near the pond is a swing bench, which is dedicated to Bill’s wife, Joyce. The beautiful park will hopefully benefit from the addition of this new plan for an added pollinator garden.
