The volunteer group, Neighbourwoods North, has kicked off their newest project at the Owen Sound Hospital today, and have begun work to create a welcoming garden at the main entrance to the hospital.

An excavator arrived early this morning to remove the top 18 inches of soil in the island between the roads at the front entrance, and replace it with new, plant-friendly topsoil. Holes will be dug for the arrival tomorrow of three, 20-foot ornamental pear trees. Next, the team of volunteer gardeners will spend the weekend planting perennials, tall grasses, and flowers, and by Fall, the group will plant deciduous and evergreen shrubs to complete the new island garden.

This is a completely community-led initiative, funded by donations to Neighbourwoods North, and donations of plants from various local garden centres and individuals.

A special thanks to Neighbourwoods North, and to Adam MacDonnell from MacDonnell Excavating for donating his crew, his time and heavy equipment to start this project.

The island garden will create a welcoming front entrance to the hospital, and will be a focal point for the thousands of patients, visitors and staff who enter the building every year.

source: media release, GBHS