In 2001, Heidi Carpine and Donna Kostka were concerned that the building of a proposed street near a local heron colony in Kiwanis Ravine would jeopardize the nests. Carpine and Kostka established a committee with Friends of Discovery Park to begin protecting and restoring the Ravine, beginning with the removal of 600 pounds of trash from the Ravine. This was a pre-cursor of the independent organization, Heron Habitat Helpers, which was established a month later.
HHH’s mission was to preserve and restore the habitat for the large colony of herons nesting in the ravine, as well as expanding and connecting pocket parks to Discovery Park to create a wildlife corridor. These restoration projects were designed and built by HHH volunteers.
Today, HHH is still a 100% volunteer organization, now restoring and maintaining 5 sites – 3 sites around Kiwanis Ravine and 2 sites at Commodore Park where the herons are currently nesting. These small green spaces are vital for our local wildlife, our planet, and humans alike. Large trees sequester carbon, small shrubs and plants provide seeds and flowers for birds, insects, amphibians and mammals. Green spaces filter toxins and pollution before entering our waters.
The public is welcome to explore these green spaces year-round. Take a walk, listen to the birds, look for flowers blooming in spring, smell the fresh air. Spending time in nature is known to reduce stress and contributes positively to your well-being. And so does volunteering, connecting you to your community, creating a sense of pride and accomplishment. Don’t be shy – contact us to get involved!