Lake Country beautification has received provincial recognition.
Lake Country was awarded four blooms during the Communities in Bloom provincial awards held in Kelowna. There was also special mention for the development of the arboretum at Jack Seaton Park.
“I’m very proud of the work that went into this year’s Communities in Bloom submission,” said Coun. Jamie McEwan, Communities in Bloom committee chairperson.
“The collaboration of our hard-working community groups, alongside the Communities in Bloom committee and staff, were the greatest contributing factors to Lake Country’s success in this project.”
Additionally, Lake Country scored highest in the landscaped areas category over all participating communities in the province.
The arboretum provides a peaceful setting for the public to walk, sit or just contemplate. At the same time, it provides a place of improved habitat for all manner of birds, animals and insect life to flourish.
Phase one is well under way and will be completed next year – 18 trees have been planted to date, including seven different species of trees.
Information plaques will be installed at the various trees giving a brief description of their history, growth habit and uses. Paths have been created and benches will be installed next year.
This is the second year that Lake Country has participated in the Communities in Bloom program.
“We look at it as a catalyst to inventory assets and review progress and improvement in the community, while unifying individuals, business leaders, municipal staff and local service clubs who care about helping their community achieve its full potential,” said Steve Schaffrick, director of community and customer services.