Conservation at Fannin County Recreation Park
Blue Ridge Elementary Collaboration
It was a lively day of hands-on learning as the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Office joined Blue Ridge Elementary School students, guided by STEM teacher Tori Arp, and Emily Owenby of Noontootla Creek Farm, to enhance the natural habitat at Fannin County Recreation Park (Tom Boyd) Park this spring.
Approximately 60 native plants were installed in the new pollinator garden, including swamp milkweed, black-eyed Susan, coneflower, Joe Pye weed, aster, goldenrod, bluestem, St. John’s wort, narrow-leaf sunflower, ironweed, and blazing star. These species are essential for supporting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Along the paved walking path near the edge of Sugar Creek, approximately 30 elderberry, buttonbush, mulberry, beautyberry, redbud, and river birch were planted. Each native species was chosen with care, further strengthening the long-term impact of the project.
Efforts like this reflect the Chamber’s continued commitment to conservation and education, building on previous initiatives that connect students with hands-on environmental learning. Similar projects have demonstrated the importance of native plantings in protecting water quality, reducing erosion, and enhancing biodiversity across Fannin County’s parks.
Guidance from conservation partners ensured that plant selection and placement were designed for long-term success, reinforcing the importance of thoughtful stewardship. These types of collaborations not only improve public spaces but also help instill a lifelong appreciation for conservation in the next generation, an approach consistently seen in projects across the community.
Tom Boyd Park, a well-loved gathering space for residents and visitors, continues to benefit from investments that enhance both its natural beauty and environmental health. “Projects like this show how a community can come together to create lasting impact,” said Christie Gribble.
This initiative is part of the Chamber’s broader #LovingLocal effort, which highlights community-driven projects that protect and celebrate the natural assets that make Fannin County special.