In 2015, the FWG gully, visible from Prince of Wales Drive, was full of comfrey mixed with dog-strangling vine. That first summer, a few of these very invasive species were replaced with patches of Joe Pye Weed and Swamp Milkweed. Each year, more invasives were removed and more native wildflowers that like moist soil were planted: Swamp Aster, Culver’s Root, Flat-topped Aster, Blue Flag Iris, Cardinal Flower, Bottle Gentian, and many more.

Now that most of the comfrey and DSV is gone, we can see that the gully and its slopes offer various habitats, both sunny and shady and wet to dry. This has allowed volunteers to expand the variety of species that were planted. As the biodiversity of plants has increased, so has the variety of animal life: butterflies, bees, frogs, snakes, hummingbirds, and so on.

Ten years on, the gully continues to be a haven for monarchs.

Bee researcher Lydia Wong will be on hand to identify pollinators and explain their needs and habits.

Meet at the main parking area beside the baseball diamond.

Check for updates and other changes at: https://wildpollinators-pollinisateurssauvages.ca/activity/gully-at-the-fletcher-wildlife-garden/