Central Natural Environment Gardens are a unique urban wilderness environment. The gardens were created on vacant land when a road was re-routed in the early 1990’s to meet the needs of increasing traffic due to a rapidly expanding light industrial zone. Nearby residents and industrial park employees have watched the transformation of the area from a dirt-covered lot with ‘clean fill’ to a vibrant garden space alive with butterflies and birds. The Gardens are an important model for residents of Thunder Bay, providing living proof that native plant species are not only beautiful, but provide important habitats in an urban setting. View and learn about some of these plants in the Central Gardens Virtual Plant Tour.
Central Natural Environment Gardens provide an oasis of beauty and calm in a high-density business area, showcasing examples of different approaches to landscaping using native species and no pesticides. It is an easily accessible, highly visible green space that is enjoyed by community groups, joggers and neighbours.
The Gardens are located off Central Avenue, between 10th Avenue and Reaume Street in Thunder Bay. Vehicle access to the Garden is from 10th Avenue via a small gravel parking lot. A walking/ jogging trail through the site is used to access a nearby trail network. The site is used by school and community groups, by local photographers interested in native flowers and insects, and is a favoured picnic area.
Returning for 2011 is our New Leaf Garden Project, check it out and see how you can do your part to make it grow.
Witness the changes at Central Natural Environment Gardens throughout the season as documented by one garden visitor and her camera each Monday morning at Mondays Garden.
Directions to the garden
Drop by and look for:
- The Millennium Garden – try the human sundial
- Interpretive Garden – learn about native wildflowers
- Solar-powered water pump
- Composting area with informative signage
- A variety of gardens: Meadow, Woodland, Wetland and Bird & Butterfly, Anishnabek Teaching Garden, all in various stages
- Great Boreal Adventure site
Volunteer Opportunity!
Join us for garden maintenance weekly, weather permitting, on Wednesday mornings (9am-noon) throughout the summer. Bring a hat, work gloves and sun protection—we provide tools, training and refreshments. Children welcome. For more information, contact Karen at 624-2143.
We would like to thank the Thunder Bay Stewardship Rangers, Sleeping Giant Rangers and Roots to Harvest groups, as well as many other dedicated volunteers for their help in maintaining and transforming the gardens. We couldn't do it without you.
This program is made possible with funding by:
- The City of Thunder Bay Community Services Department (Parks Division).
Page last updated on Wednesday, May 25, 2011
