Welcome to the Ross Lake Park Garden Journal, a dedicated space where the Whale Point Brook Watershed Association (WPBWA) captures the evolution of our sanctuary in Long Branch. If you’ve been seeking a moment of peace, we invite you to walk our paths, breathe in the lake air, and watch our native landscape thrive.

Our Mission: Restoration and Beauty

The hear of our work at Ross Lake Park is the native shrub and pollinator garden. By prioritizing plants indigenous to our coastal region, we are doing more than just landscaping, we are rebuilding a broken ecosystem. There plants provide essential food and habits for local birds, bees, and butterflies, ensuring the the watershed remains vibrant and resilient.

What’s Blooming?

Our seasonal updates keep you informed on the “who’s who” of the garden. Currently, our native shrubs are establishing deep roots, providing a lush backdrop for the seasonal pops of color from milkweed, goldenrod, and aster. These selections aren’t just for show—they are hardworking filters that help manage runoff before it enters Ross Lake, protecting our water quality.

A Place for Solitude

Beyond the environmental benefits, Ross Lake Park offers a rare urban escape. There is a specific magic in standing among the wildflowers and gazing across the water toward the historic Ross Island Stone Hut. It is a view that connects the history of Long Branch with the future of our conservation efforts.

How You Can Help:

• Observe: Visit often to see how the garden changes with the seasons.
• Volunteer: Join our “weed and seed” days to get your hands in the dirt.
• Learn: Use our journal as a guide for what you can plant in your own backyard to support local pollinators.

We look forward to seeing you by the water!