The North Haven Parent Association is pleased to announce that Phase 2 of the North Haven Learning Grounds is wrapping up following summer construction. Phase 2 has extended accessible pathways to existing tables and the play structure, added to the classroom forest near the amphitheatre, constructed an obstacle play area, created a meadow, and planted 24 trees! It will take some time, but there will eventually be shade in the schoolyard. Improvements were also made to the main school entrance.
Similar to Phase 1, areas of the Learning Grounds will be protected behind fencing to allow the plants and trees to establish themselves. This includes the meadow that will be located in the southwest portion of the schoolyard, near the amphitheatre and classroom forest. The meadow will include native grasses and “islands” with wildflowers like fireweed, prairie crocus, goldenrod, bergamot, and brown-eyed susans. The grasses and flowers will be allowed to grow long, creating a pollinator habitat and student learning opportunities, but will be mowed twice a year. The meadow may look a little unkempt, but it’s for the pollinators!
Many of you may have also noticed that the very sad looking lodgepole pine from Phase 1 has been replaced. We heard about this tree from quite a few concerned folks, as its yellow-brown needles were hard to miss. This tree was flagged early on – it had root ball damage upon arrival, and we had hoped it would make it, but the hot, dry spring won out. It was removed and replaced on warranty.
As we close out construction, we’d like to once again thank our wonderful community who contributed to the project through fundraising, donations, and time watering and weeding. Phase 2 was made possible by the Alberta Community Facility Enhancement Program ($125,000!), TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, and Calgary Foundation Neighbour Grant.
We are also seeking tree watering bags to help maintain our new forest. Please contact the North Haven Parent Association, or the North Haven Community Association if you have tree watering bags you no longer need.
Lastly, we would like to invite community members, friends, and neighbours to use the space. Take a walk through the Learning Grounds and enjoy the transformation.
North Haven Parent Association
Learning Grounds Committee
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