Bird Watching

Congratulations to Culpepper Garden for being the Green Grants award #29!  They will receive a grant of $1,000 to create their Bird Watching Native Garden!

Culpepper Garden is an affordable senior living facility located on four + acres of vibrant gardens and grounds in Arlington. They provide affordable independent and assisted living apartments and care for over 400 low-income older adults.  Owned by the nonprofit Arlington Retirement Housing Corporation, Culpepper Garden was founded over 50 years ago with a mission is to provide and advocate for high-quality, affordable housing, services and programs that allow older adults living on fixed and very low incomes to age in place with dignity.

The Bird Watching Native Garden aims to enhance the quality of life for residents through the creation of a captivating migratory bird habitat. This project not only serves as a means of connecting the residents with nature, but also provides an enriching birdwatching program that fosters community engagement and promotes mental and physical well-being.  The habitat will incorporate native plant species known to attract birds, such as berry-producing shrubs, nectar-rich flowers, and diverse tree varieties, that will provide essential food sources and shelter for these avian visitors.  There will be a series of educational workshops and guided birdwatching tours led by experienced naturalists, as well as a comprehensive monitoring program to track bird species diversity and population dynamics within the habitat.

Time spent in nature can be therapeutic in many ways for older adults and has many health benefits. Getting exercise, stress relief, maintaining motor skills, and lowering blood pressure are some of the health benefits that can come from gardening. It is also a great way to bring people of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds together to enjoy these beautiful outdoor spaces.

Funds from the Green Grants award will be used to purchase Native plants and trees for habitat, such as Eastern Redbud, Eastern Columbine, Cardinal flower, Elderberry, Native Milkweed, Wisteria, Viburnums; a solar bird bath and bird seed; Garden supplies such as shovels, planting bags, gloves, tree stakes; printing materials to be used at bird watching events.

Volunteers from the community, including local scout troops and Virginia Master Gardeners, will assist with removing invasive species and replacing them with native plants.  Master Gardeners will lead the education sessions and provide consultation on creating a garden setting that will have the best results in attracting migratory birds.

Culpepper Garden is committed to ensuring that all older persons will have access to affordable housing and services that foster autonomy, dignity, and well-being, regardless of their financial circumstances.  The Bird Watching Native Garden is sure to be a valued green space for the residents, staff, and visitors!