THUNDER BAY – EcoSuperior is growing a new kind of garden this spring—the New Leaf Garden. What grows there will depend on the citizens of Thunder Bay and area.
“We came up with a unique way to show positive changes in a very visible way,” says Executive Director Ellen Mortfield. “In the New Leaf Garden, we will plant one sunflower seed for every person who makes a commitment to a more sustainable life and registers that commitment on our website. Make a change, and we’ll plant a sunflower in the garden for you.”
The non-profit organization is hoping to fill a large garden bed with sunflowers that will be readily visible from Central Avenue. It’s a new element at the Central Natural Environment Gardens, a demonstration area in partnership with the City of Thunder Bay Parks Divison.
Residents are invited to visit EcoSuperior’s website (www.ecosuperior.org) and choose an action from the list provided. Commitments include things such as unplugging cell phone chargers when not in use; serve one locally grown meal each month or each week, stop using drive thrus, start composting, replace some lawn with vegetables or perennials, and many more. Participants can also create their own commitment.
“Just pick one thing that you’re not already doing,” adds Mortfield. “And we will plant a sunflower in the garden to recognize your efforts.” Commitments registered on the website by May 21 will be included in the garden.