Create a Neighborhood Nature Trail

Hi, we are the Swaisgood Family -- Ron, Janice, Owen and Luke! We have been DIY landscapers for many years, with a heavy focus on native plants. Our corner lot yard has become pretty popular in the neighborhood, as people comment how much they love seeing the newest develoments in our yard -- which is why we are currently adding a DG path and about 30 more natives. We hope people will venture into our yard on our "nature trails" to learn about natives and be inspired to convert their own yards or properties to mini nature sanctuaries, friendly to local animals and to the environment as a whole.

While one doesn't have to hire a high-end professional to do this work, we would like to add a "professional" touch that will actually teach people about our plants and trees! The funds raised here will be put toward helping to cover the cost of signs to be put in front of our plants, shrubs, and trees. We have some now, which passersby LOVE, and would like to complete the signage for our native yard. Think botanic garden - the little signs on posts that tell the common and scientific name of the species, plus more helpful info! Our challenge in doing this is the cost -- roughly $18 per sign, including the engraved information, stake, tax and shipping. With about 125 signs needed, that adds up quickly to over $2,200. And that doesn't even include the cost of the plants themselves which we are of course providing!

We will be posting the names of donors on a sign at the beginning of our main trail: "This neighborhood nature trail was made possible in part by the following people:"

We realize this is not some sort of emergency fund and you have many options for where to donate. We would be ever so grateful for any contribution you could make, however small or large, and we humbly thank you for your consideration.