Turf Restoration & Well Being of the Trees.?

 

What’s Going on with the Grass?

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The Advisory Council is dedicated to a major multi-year capital project of maintaining the Park’s health. Since 2016 uncountable man hours have been dedicated to reviewing and meeting with Park District teams to establish a directive to assure the Park's environmental health.

 

The Bark Bathroom –

 

What is this? The Bark Bathroom is a special dog area designed for dogs to relieve themselves, with the intent to protect the trees and park greenery. A natural material, the bark base absorbs urine and protects the growth of bacteria and harmful elements to the ground and trees. Originally in Spring of 2021, the North Quadrant (Walton Street) was the first Bark Bathroom, but has moved to the East Quadrant (Walton Street).

 

A Park under Stress-

 

As several high-rise developments expanded the neighborhood, the attendance at the park increased. Many patrons came with children and dogs, seeking peace and green outdoor space. The Park, a unique fenced space with over 93 trees, offered shade and park benches that were filled most of the day and into night. Then in 2021, a two year pandemic made this haven of nature a most desirable destination, but grass was unseeded and frisky playful dogs in parched sun ridden areas took its toll. The Park experienced stress, and was victim to overuse and lack of attention.

 

Turf Restoration & Tree Planting

 

As of yearend 2022 one quadrant has been restored but remains fenced. The original timeline, interrupted by the pandemic has been altered, and awaits prioritization by the Chicago Park District and manpower resources to conduct the work. The Chicago Park District replants trees regularly. In 2016,13 trees were planted. In 2022, 6 trees have been planted, trees that will tolerate the changing weather, trees that will increase the biodiversity of the park. Now in 2024 an additional 7 trees have been planted in the South and West quadrants, including 2 Bur Oaks, 1 Swamp White Oak,1 Redmond Linden,1 Silver Linden and 2 Kentucky coffee trees.  All are appropriate growers for Chicago city climate.