Pollinators and Birds - Mother’s Day
To celebrate Mother’s Day this year and the upcoming installation of the first Pollinator Garden along the Elizabeth River Trail in Elizabeth, New Jersey, we hosted a special event at Josephine’s Place, a women’s empowerment center. The event was made possible through a partnership between Groundwork Elizabeth, the Friends of Great Swamp, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The day began with a warm welcome and expressions of appreciation for all the mothers in attendance. We thanked them for everything they do and recognized the important role they play in their families and communities.
Following the introduction, we discussed the importance of pollinators and highlighted several native pollinator species found in New Jersey, along with the native plants they rely on for food and habitat. Participants also learned about the Pollinator Garden that will be planted later in June at the beginning of the Elizabeth River Trail. We encouraged everyone to visit the site in July once the planting is complete. In recognition of World Migratory Bird Day, we also discussed how pollinator gardens provide valuable habitat and food sources for many small migratory bird species.
The event featured three interactive stations. At the first station, participants helped repot butterfly milkweed plants that will eventually be planted in the pollinator garden. This activity allowed attendees to become part of the garden’s creation while learning how repotting helps plants develop stronger root systems and improves their chances of survival once transplanted. Together, we repotted more than 25 butterfly milkweed plants.
After completing the repotting activity, participants moved to the second station, where they painted their own terracotta flower pots. Each attendee was able to take home their decorated pot along with soil and a selection of seeds. The women created a variety of colorful designs, including floral patterns, insects, and other nature-inspired artwork that reflected the event’s pollinator theme.
The third station celebrated World Migratory Bird Day. Participants were given decorative birdhouses to paint and personalize, creating unique keepsakes to take home. During the activity, we discussed the important relationship between migratory birds, pollinators, and healthy ecosystems. Participants learned how pollinator gardens provide food, shelter, and habitat that support both pollinators and many migratory bird species, highlighting the interconnectedness of wildlife and the importance of creating and protecting native habitats.
Lunch was generously provided by the Friends group and featured handmade empanadas from a local restaurant in Elizabeth. Participants enjoyed a delicious meal and a chance to relax and connect before eagerly returning to complete their painting projects.
At the conclusion of the event, each participant received a gift bag containing soil and seeds for their newly decorated flower pots. They were also given children’s books collected by the Friends group that focused on pollinators, birds, and plants, as well as coloring books featuring pollinators and native plant species. Participants were encouraged to share what they learned during the event with their children and grandchildren, helping to spread awareness about the importance of pollinators, birds, and native habitats. In addition, blankets were provided as a special gift to thank the women for joining us in the celebration.
Overall, the event was a tremendous success and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day while fostering a deeper connection to nature. Through hands-on activities, education, and community engagement, participants learned about the important role that pollinators, birds, and native plants play in supporting healthy ecosystems, all while enjoying a meaningful day of creativity, conversation, and appreciation.