Brickyard Landing Park – Riparian Buffer Demonstration Garden and Meadow

A Riparian Buffer Demonstration Garden

Brickyard Landing Park Demonstration Garden started as a Water Steward project and soon developed into a cooperative project between Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists. It serves the educational mission of the Master Gardeners while meeting the mission of the Master Naturalists, by developing habitat, and volunteers from both organizations have been integral to the project’s implementation. This 119-acre park sits at a beautiful spot along the Chickahominy River at 990 Brickyard Rd., Toano, Virginia.

Why a Riparian Buffer Garden?

With so much of James City County on or near water, managing riparian areas is critical. Even people not living on the water often have low, wet spots in their yards or erosion issues during heavy stormwater events. Plants can play an important role in managing stormwater issues, and this project can help homeowners plant the best plants for their situation.

Cooperative Effort

The initiative that began in the fall of 2023 has blossomed into a vibrant community project, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists. With the generous grant funding secured through James City County and the Colonial Water and Soil District, the project has seen the successful installation of 90 native trees and woody shrubs, and an impressive 1500 native grasses and perennials. These plantings, meticulously placed by Master Gardener and Master Naturalist volunteers, alongside James City County Parks employees, are now taking root, transforming the landscape into a flourishing ecosystem. The dedication to nurturing these new additions is evident in the regular watering, weeding, and mulching sessions, ensuring the plants' establishment and growth. It's a labor of love that not only beautifies the area but also contributes to the environmental health of the community.

What is next?

The next phase of this project will involve planting another 120 trees and woody shrubs and installing a native plant meadow.  The phase is planned for the fall of 2024 and will be funded with a Coastal Resilience and Tree Fund grant.

Learn More

If you want to learn about native plants, meadow installation, riparian buffers or want to get involved in this garden project, volunteers work in the garden Monday and Thursday mornings through October, as well as at other times when there are major plant installations.