The renewal of this historic site called for a full revitalization of the ornamental pond feature and center island. As well as an abundance of trees, plants and sod throughout the park. Our Landscaping team moved in 2017 and maintained until 2019.

The biggest challenge was above-average precipitation that spring; skillful time management was a necessity. Mud was our regular companion. We worked from the center of the island outwards, beginning with a fifteen-foot bridge temporarily installed to bring the Siberian larch tree to the island. All by hand, hand-dug and mobilized by a hard-working team. Confronted again by wet terrain, the bridge’s utility extended itself in the safe placement of the island’s rock border. Muddy frustration turned into collaboration.

For the pond itself, supervisors and crew worked closely to ensure the proper soil mix, depth, and spacing of aquatic plants. The task was surrounding the pond border with cattails, arrowhead, water plantain, sweet flag, bog arum, lakeshore sedge, and accompanied by bogbean, spike rush, and arctic rush. Every morning was a review of the species being installed to form a clear understanding and good planting habits. What’s more, any plants that didn’t take would need to be replaced with the pond filled.

The park circling the ornamental pond had 85 percent of it resurfaced. The original elegant park design stayed true by keeping all mature trees. We replaced soil, sod, and mulch and added maple and crab apple trees next to the already established trees. Accompanying these new additions are Karl Forrester and blue oat grass.

The park is now busy, and the sound of the city can be heard in the background. And yet, It somehow feels quieter in Paul Kane Park. It’s a place to read, reflect and take in the heritage.