Ecotopes at Springdale Park

2010 Neighborhood Beautification Grant Recipient 

Springdale Park is a hidden gem located within the Eastfield Neighborhood Association. Residents of this neighborhood are mostly low-income households, and the local parks see a large number of users. The park is 14.87 acres and consists of a play-scape area, an amphitheater, .27 miles of paved and mulched trails, and substantial surrounding wooded area. However, the play-scape area is uncovered and extremely hot; there is no planting near the entrance or play-scape area besides some patchy invasive Bermuda turf grass.

Tree canopies reduce air temperature and create micro-climates through transpiration by reducing solar radiation absorption and heat storage. Since east Austin is originally Blackland Prairie, only species native to that region will be used. Additionally, wildlife habitats provide food, water, cover, and places to raise young; this kind of demonstration garden can both educate families on how to make their own as well as attract and provide for local fauna.

The KAB Grant will fund the planting of native trees and the creation of a small native habitat demonstration garden.

BEFORE

PLANS

October 16, 2010 Planting Day