ScapeMail
Volume 9, Issue 9 May 6, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE
- Spring Day of Service Recap
- Sidewalks & Pathways
- Instant Color
2025 Spring Day of Service
On Saturday, May 3rd, we held our (rescheduled due to rain) annual Spring Day of Service. Forty volunteers, consisting of staff, family and friends, met at HQ at 8:00 AM to review safety protocols, receive their work assignment for the morning, and enjoy some bagels and coffee.
After my remarks welcoming our guests and reiterating how important this day is for us, teams loaded the trucks with the necessary tools and headed to their destinations – fired up and ready to work!
Crews performed spring cleanups in New Milford at Sunny Valley Preserve for the Nature Conservancy, The Children’s Center, and Pratt Nature Center. At Steep Rock Preserve in Washington, crews pulled invasive plants from a large section of the preserve, while another group of volunteers cleaned up garbage along the preserve’s roadside. We also had one crew that performed a spring cleanup at a private residence in need of assistance.
In the span of three hours, 6 sites were visited, over 100 hours of work was performed, approximately 5,832 square feet of mulch was put down, and several bags of litter was removed from roadsides (including 63 alcohol nippers). After the work was done, teams returned to HQ for a cookout and refreshments. -Shayne
YardScapes Annual Spring Day of Service
The Pratt Center
(L-R) Kyle, Juan, Martin, Maggi, Juan, Jali & Ricardo
The Children’s Center
(L-R) Filemon, Jesus, Yaminton, Ruben, Luis & Max
Steep Rock Preserve
(L-R) Devon, Liz, Steven, Alex, Joaquin, Juan Y, Erick, Francisco, Florentino and James (front). Below: Holly and Kathy’s litter haul.
Sunny Valley Preserve
(L-R) Mauricio, Christian, Rene, Manny P & Jonathan.
Litter picked up by Dawn from the roadside at Sunny Valley.
“Dedicating time to helping others can lead to deep personal fulfillment.”
Unknown
Sidewalks & Pathways
Sidewalks and pathways do more than simply guide people from one place to another—they shape the flow and aesthetic of outdoor spaces. Whether in residential gardens, commercial properties, or public parks, well-designed walkways create harmony between nature and function. Without most of us even noticing, they offer visual appeal, improve accessibility, and enhance the overall experience of a landscape.
Material choice is a key factor in designing pathways that complement the surrounding environment. Natural stone, brick, pavers, and concrete all provide different textures and durability, allowing for customization based on climate, style, and intended use. Additionally, incorporating curves and thoughtful placement can transform a rigid walkway into an inviting, organic feature that feels naturally integrated into the landscape.
Beyond aesthetics, sidewalks and pathways serve a practical purpose. They define spaces, protect greenery from foot traffic, and increase safety by providing designated routes. A well-maintained path can also boost property value by improving curb appeal and ensuring longevity.
Whether creating a garden retreat or a sleek commercial entrance, investing in high-quality walkways enhances both beauty and functionality in any outdoor setting.
A well-designed sidewalk or pathway is more than just a walkway—it’s an invitation to explore, connect, and appreciate the beauty of thoughtfully crafted landscapes.
Instant Color
Annual flowers are a simple yet powerful way to introduce bold, eye-catching color into any landscape. Unlike perennials, which return year after year, annuals provide an ever-changing display of fresh beauty throughout the seasons.
From the bold pinks of petunias to the sunny yellow of begonias, annual flowers can transform an ordinary outdoor space into a lively and inviting retreat.
One of the greatest advantages of annual flowers is their versatility. Whether planted in garden beds, hanging baskets, or decorative containers, they offer endless possibilities for enhancing curb appeal. We can strategically mix different varieties to create dynamic color contrasts or coordinate flowers to match a property’s overall design aesthetic. Additionally, many annuals attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees, supporting a healthier ecosystem while adding movement and life to the garden.
Beyond their visual impact, annual flowers are relatively easy to maintain and can be swapped out as the seasons change. Spring and summer bring bright, sun-loving blooms like impatiens and geraniums, while fall welcomes warm-toned chrysanthemums and ornamental kale. This seasonal flexibility allows property owners to refresh their landscaping throughout the year, keeping outdoor spaces looking fresh, vibrant, and thoughtfully designed.
