Iron Mountain, Mich. (WZMQ) — A once unusable swale in Lake Antoine Park has been transformed into a vibrant rain garden, enhancing both the park’s functionality and ecological value. Andrew Finkel, Development Coordinator for the Dickinson Conservation District, detailed the transformation and its benefits.
“The rain garden is located in a swale at Lake Antoine Park. For those unfamiliar, a swale is a low area that often floods, rendering it unusable. This area, previously just grass and prone to flooding, has now been converted into a rain garden with native plants provided by Designs by Nature Upper Peninsula Natives out of Marquette,” Finkel explained.
The rain garden’s primary purpose is to manage excess water and support local biodiversity. “These plants will absorb the excess water in the swale, keeping the area beautiful, usable, and enjoyable. Additionally, they will provide food for important local pollinators,” Finkel said.
Finkel emphasized the garden’s ecological significance, noting its stratified design. “Like the butterfly garden, there’s a lifecycle. The plants will grow and die back, reaching different heights at different times. This stratification creates valuable habitat types for various insects that will live and feed in the rain garden.”
The project was made possible through collaboration and support from several organizations. “A special thank you to the Wildflower Association of Michigan for providing the grant and resources. We also appreciate Designs by Nature U.P. Natives for supplying the plants, which are native, sustainable species that we need more of,” Finkel added.
Finkel also expressed gratitude towards local partners. “We thank the Lake Antoine Park Partners and the Dickinson County Board of Commissioners for permitting us to undertake this project. Partnering with the Lake Antoine Park Partners has always been a source of pride for us.”
The new rain garden not only addresses flooding issues but also enriches the local environment, making Lake Antoine Park a more enjoyable and ecologically sound space for the community.
The Dickinson Conservation District’s fall tree sale is now live, and taking orders until September 16th. To browse or place an order, or to find out more about the Dickinson Conservation District, visit:
