Over the years we have come to love the Erie Basin Marina for many things, including The Hatch restaurant and the glorious walks along out to the Observation Tower. Numerous times we have highlighted the experimental seed plantings at the marina, many of which are provided by the world renowned Ball Seed Company. This planting area along the waterfront is a testing ground for flowers that are eventually planted throughout the country and event the world. Buffalo benefits from this symbiotic relationship in a number of ways, not the least of which is the utter beauty that we are graced with in the spring, summer and fall. Being recognized as a city where test gardens are planted does not hurt either. Not to mention the visitors that the gardens attract each growing season.
Garden advocate Elizabeth Licata has just notified me that the test gardens that I am referring to are in jeopardy of going away. Apparently The City does not understand or appreciate their worth. Stan Swisher, the horticulturalist at the gardens has let it known that the lease is up, and if The City does not come around to the benefits of the gardens, we may lose them. At this point the seeds are all donated to the site by the seed companies, and the test gardens have even become a Garden Walk staple.
Proponents of the test gardens planted with 350 varieties of annuals, and their importance to the Erie Basin Marina and the waterfront are asked to send letters of support to:
The address for letters is:
First Buffalo River Marina
Attn. Julia Wolasz
32 Fuhrmann Blvd
Buffalo 14203
Or you can email letters to me, and I will pass them along to the appropriate parties: newell@Buffalorising.com
The letters will be presented to Common Council in two weeks, in order to show that the community supports this fundamental initiative that gives so much pleasure to so many people. To me, this is one of those “duh” moments that makes you wonder why we even have to waste our time justifying such no brainer initiatives.
Photos: Elizabeth Licata