Trenton South Ward Neighborhood Association Community Garden Pollinator Grant

Since 2023, Princeton Hydro has been working with the local nonprofit group, Trenton South Ward Neighborhood Association (TSWNA), on projects and initiatives to obtain and transform vacant lots in Trenton to accessible green, community parks. Princeton Hydro assisted the TSWNA in obtaining a grant from the Xerces Society to plant 500-native pollinator plants in their community garden. The Xerces Society habitat kit program aims to increase access to high-quality pollinator habitat plants, especially in marginalized populations. The project strives to achieve multiple objectives: 1) provide the TSWNA with a new configuration to increase the amount of planting beds, and 2) incorporate a shed/workspace area in addition to the native plant plugs in a way that creates distinct spaces within the garden. The inclusion of native plant plugs provides a valuable opportunity for the TSWNA to engage residents through educational experiences. The native pollinator garden project highlights the critical role native pollinator plants play in supporting vegetable and fruit production, in turn fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among the community.

Princeton Hydro’s role in the project involved developing three design concepts and presenting the alternatives to the TSWNA Board President for review. Once the concept was selected, Princeton Hydro created a planting plan and a maintenance package to assist the TSWNA in identifying and managing the plants provided through the grant. Additionally, Princeton Hydro collaborated with the TSWNA to organize volunteer site preparation and plant installation days, promoting community involvement and engagement throughout the process.