Lexington Council members have a discussion of native trees and wildflower beds in parks

The growth of natural areas in Lexington’s public parks has generated interest in the community. That talk has come within neighborhoods and at City Hall.

Naturalized areas are found in 28 parks in Lexington, covering about 80 acres. They’ve grown over the last few years. Judging from comments at this weeks’ Council committee meeting, so have citizens’ observations. Parks and Recreation Director Monica Conrad said a concerted effort was made to stay away from flat field green space.

“Using more natural areas where you have slopes for detention or areas that you’re just not gonna be able to play on made sense to select those as more of investment in naturalized area,” said Conrad.

More than one Council member expressed concern about high-growing vegetation as a potential hiding area or camp for the unsheltered. Council Member Dave Sevigny said comments often range from complaint to love it regarding natural areas in parks.

He said some residents know non-desirable thistles and providing a reporting avenue would be beneficial.

“I do think some educational experiences, using a cell phone, and to be able to report something like ‘hey I noticed this in this area’ would probably be positive,” said Sevigny.

Council Member Chuck Ellinger said additional signage designating the newly planted native trees and wildflower beds might help clarify the intent. Deputy Parks Director Chris Cooperrider noted out in the field parks teams hear more positive comments than complaints. And Cooperrider added there’s more use of grass trails.

Lexington Parks and Recreation is a financial supporter of WEKU.

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