Letting The Meadow Grow: A New Natural Area at Valdese Lakeside Park
At Valdese Lakeside Park, one mile into the park along the Outer Loop, there’s a wide open grassy area we call The Meadow. For years, this space was regularly mowed—but as our trail system has evolved, so has our thinking.
Thanks to a recent trail reroute that moves visitors into the woods, The Meadow no longer needs to function as lawn. Instead, Friends of the Valdese Rec (FVR) is taking the opportunity to do something better for the land, for wildlife, and for the long-term sustainability of the park.
From Lawn to Living Landscape
Our goal is simple: turn a high-maintenance grassy area into a low-maintenance natural space—one that supports birds, pollinators, and small wildlife while reducing mowing and ongoing maintenance costs. Rather than formal landscaping, The Meadow will be allowed to “grow up” naturally, with intentional plantings to help guide that process.
Using FVR funds, we’re investing in native and edible plant species that provide food and habitat for animals, stabilize the landscape, and fit naturally into the park setting. This is restoration for function first—wildlife over ornamentation—while still creating something interesting and inviting to observe from the nearby woodland trail.
What We’re Planting
Working with a Settlemyre Nursery, we’re selecting plants that thrive in our region and offer real ecological value. Planned plantings include:
- Berry-producing shrubs like blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and elderberries
- Native fruiting plants that support birds and small mammals
- Pollinator-friendly natives that provide food for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects
These plants help replace turf grass with a diverse, resilient ecosystem—one that changes with the seasons and supports life year-round.
Volunteer Workday: February 21
This project will come to life with the help of volunteers. On February 21, Friends of the Valdese Rec will host a workday with App State Catawba Valley Alumni Chapter at The Meadow to begin planting and site preparation.
Volunteer support is critical to making projects like this possible. Every plant installed represents fewer mowing hours, healthier habitat, and a park that works smarter for the future.
(with Feb 28th and March 28th are possible weather makeup dates)
Why This Matters
This Meadow project reflects what FVR is all about:
- Smart use of donor funds
- Volunteer-powered improvements
- Accessible nature for people and wildlife
- Long-term sustainability for Valdese parks
By letting The Meadow grow—thoughtfully and intentionally—we’re creating a natural space that benefits the entire park system for years to come.
Together, we’re building parks that work for everyone—human and wild alike. 🌱