Fort Williams Park provides us with endless opportunities to learn about our world. Both Cliffside and Lighthouse View are examples of environmental reclamation, with native plants flourishing and wildlife habitat being re-established.
Alterations in habitat, however well-intentioned, result in changes in wildlife populations. Disruption and widespread loss of milkweed is one example. Milkweed is critical to survival of monarch butterflies. Monarchs lay eggs in milkweed plants and their caterpillars eat only milkweed.
Lighthouse View has been designated a Monarch Waystation by MonarchWatch.org. In partnership with Maine Audubon, the Foundation helped local school children spread pollinator seeds and plant milkweed seedlings this spring, creating an inviting monarch habitat in the summer.
You can learn more about obtaining and planting milkweed seeds for your home gardens by visiting: http://monarchjointventure.org/get-involved/create-habitat-for-monarchs/
Initiating thoughtful dialogue and discussion around questions like invasive plant management and habitat restoration benefits us all. Engage your senses and learn from this small piece of the Park!
Janet Villiotte, Education Coordinator
Fort Williams Park Foundation