Living green with the Inverness parks

To the editor: The Inverness Park District has recently adopted a policy in which only the use of non-phosphorous fertilizers will be allowed on park district property. The park district has been diligent in making improvements to the natural environment at all park facilities, as demonstrated in the care and maintenance of natural areas of the parks including a natural wetland, Black Walnut Woodland, an Illinois prairie, a wetlands demonstration garden and educational loop.

Commissioner Ed Vrablik leads the Nature Restoration and Beautification Committee and has worked tirelessly with assistance from volunteers to bring improvements to the natural environment. With assistance from members of Citizens for Conservation, Garden Club of Inverness, students from Fremd High School VIKES program and volunteer citizens from the community, numerous successful projects have been completed.

The Inverness Park District Restoration and Beautification Program has received the 2005 Governor's Home Town Award, 2006 United States EPA Conservation & Native Landscaping Award and the 2006 Chicago Wilderness Excellence in Conservation Award for their efforts in protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of their parks.

The newly adopted policy for a phosphorous free fertilization program at the Inverness Park District demonstrates a continued commitment from the park board and individuals that promote living green in the Inverness Park District.

The Inverness Park District also has a matching funds program where every dollar donated to the Restoration and Beautification effort is matched.

For information on making a donation or on how you can help with environmental improvements at the Inverness parks, please contact drectors Nancy DiGioia and Lucia Flanagan at (847) 934-6300 or invernesspark@comcast.net.

Nancy DiGioia

Lucia Flanagan

co-directors

Inverness Park District