Project Leader: Norma Benson benson.norma@gmail.com
The Waterwise Garden provides a welcoming pathway for visitors to the
Hood River Library and to out-of-towners strolling through downtown
Hood River. Constructed in 2008, the garden comprises numerous plants
that thrive in the Columbia Gorge climate with little or no water. The
collection was chosen for its continuous display of color, blooms, and
seasonal interest. Occasionally, we make limited changes as plants
outgrow their spaces, become damaged, or otherwise need revision.
The Waterwise Garden work party meets once a month for two hours,
usually the third Friday, March through November, to maintain the
garden’s pleasant feel. We weed, prune, rake, and sweep, and while doing
that we visit with passersby to answer their questions and enjoy their
comments. We have some exciting ideas for using new technology to
educate visitors about the plants’ cultivation needs, a map of the garden,
and a plant list.