On Saturday, April 18, the community gathered at the Paradise Hills Community Park to celebrate the grand opening of the Paradise Hills Native Garden.
Brought to life through a collaboration between community volunteers, native garden enthusiasts, and the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department, Paradise Hills Native Garden encompasses five acres of land at the site of a former landfill. Designs for the park and installation of California native plants were completed thanks to volunteers and community organizations, including Paradise Gardeners and the Master Gardener Association of San Diego County.
Development of the garden began in 2017 as a result of the advocacy of Southeastern San Diego community members who wanted to improve the site for future generations. Along with a demonstration garden, the location includes interpretative signage, gravel pathways, and themed habitat areas.
Opening day hosted a full schedule of activities, including guest speakers, garden tours, guided meditations, cultural dance performances, and special musical acts. Visitors were able to join in on the fun at the arts and crafts tables, featuring rock and pine cone painting, coloring, and face painting. Information booths, food trucks, and complimentary treats were also available for all to enjoy.
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