Local residents and trail goers may join the Friends of the Paint Creek Trail and the Paint Creek Trailways Commission at the garden on Monday, June 28, at 4:00 p.m. to officially acknowledge the completion of this new pollinator garden in Rochester Hills along the Trail ¼ mile north of Tienken.
The garden is approximately 1,100 square feet, includes a walking path, and features over 150 perennials in more than 20 varieties in support of pollinators … bees, birds, and butterflies. A few annuals are added periodically to add color and provide an additional food source.
An educational sign at the entrance, plant ID tags with QR codes, and a brochure are offered to provide information about the plants, the pollination process, and to encourage stewardship. There is a path through the garden and seating areas for people to sit and enjoy the plants, flowers, and observe the visiting pollinators.
The new garden was named in honor of the late David Moutrie, a teacher, environmentalist, and an active supporter of the Paint Creek Trail. David Moutrie served as Bike Patroller until 2012. He was known by many as the “Trail Ambassador.” Everyone admired his dedication to the Trail.
“We view this garden as an important community enhancement as there are more than 100,000 visitors to the Trail annually and this garden is in the most heavily traveled section,” said Louis Carrio, president of the Friends, and Rock Blanchard, Trailways Chairman when the garden was envisioned and completed. “We feel it is important that people understand and appreciate the role native plants and pollinators play in nature.”
About the Friends of the Paint Creek Trail
Donations to support the ongoing investment in the garden are still being accepted. The DONATE button on the Moutrie Garden Page can be used for PayPal. Checks payable to the Friends of the Paint Creek Trail may be mailed to 4393 Collins Road, Rochester, MI 48306.
About the Paint Creek Trail
The Paint Creek Trail was the first non-motorized rail-to-trail in the State of Michigan, and traverses through the communities of Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, Orion Township, and the Village of Lake Orion. The Trail annually serves approximately 100,000 pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, anglers, nature enthusiasts, and users of all ages and abilities. For more information call 248-651-9260.
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