The Humes Preserve opened to the public without much more than a peep! We’d originally envisioned celebrations with Land Alliance members and donors at a preserve pre-opening. Followed by a press conference with supportive elected officials and complete with a native butterfly release with lots of children nearby. But then COVID-19 came and didn’t go away…

Instead, on September 30th, being responsible, we simply opened the gate and let people trickle in. And we are so glad they came! Not in large numbers at first, but in small and manageable order that ensured safety and compliance with State protocols. By early fall, the meadow was filled with purple top grasses as high as your waist. The paths in the meadow had been mowed and hundreds of wildflowers planted in the spring (such as bee balm, black-eyed Susan and garden phlox) were blooming. Understory trees had been planted, thanks to the generosity of many. The entry allee lined with pink dogwood was starting to fill in. And the native butterfly came without our help as did the people.

The undulating new woodland trails above Dogwood Lane became hardened prior to the opening with visitors from adjoining Shu Swamp Preserve wandering in. Oak and beech trees towering above the paths provided an up-close and personal experience with some of the most majestic trees that remain in our community. The gravel parking lot had settled in alongside the newly restored tennis hut/visitor center and formal gardens. In addition, the recently completed outdoor exercise area had started to meld into its natural environment and people were putting it to good use.