The City of Evanston received a $4,590 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to support the revitalization of garden areas on the south side of the Dempster Street Beach Office at 1251 Lake Shore Blvd.

On Saturday, October 4, volunteers and staff worked together to remove invasive plants and debris, replacing them with native grasses and species specially adapted to the Lake Michigan shoreline. The project aimed to restore the area’s ecological health, enhance its natural beauty, and promote education in sustainable landscaping.

The grant funded the purchase of eight native plant species, a total of 808 plugs, along with a new bench, replacement wood for existing benches, topsoil, garden edging, and gardening tools.

“This project represents an important step in restoring native ecosystems along the Lake Michigan shoreline while creating an inviting and peaceful space for the community,” said Tim Carter, Lakefront and Athletics Division Manager.

The effort was made possible by community volunteers, as well as staff from the Public Works Greenway Division and the Evanston Ecology Center. Volunteers will also help maintain the gardens to ensure their long-term success.

This initiative was funded in part under the Coastal Zone Management Act by NOAA’s Office for Coastal Management, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Coastal Management Program.