The garden was started in 2007 as a project of an EMG focusing on creating a habitat for butterflies, especially the Monarch. The garden has since become a popular community spot that provides volunteer gardening

opportunities, and informal instruction and advice about various gardening topics. Residents frequently stop to interact with the volunteers.  The garden was damaged in fall 2022 when a contractor mistakenly “clear cut” the entire garden.  Then in early 2023, a sewer pipe that ran under the middle of the garden had to be replaced.  The workers did their best to save plants, but many were lost.  The EMGs and other volunteers focused on replanting and weeding. 

The current EMGs are responsible for the planning and maintaining the garden, and scheduling gardening activities and volunteer dates between April and November. 

The garden is located on City of Royal Oak property and the city requires all volunteers to be approved through the city’s process.  An online application can be found at this link: https://www.ropl.org/1073/Volunteer  or an application can be requested at the library circulation desk. 

The schedule that has been provided is subject to change depending on weather, city events, and the needs of the garden.  In addition to these dates, EMGs who are also approved library volunteers can work other days and times that are convenient for them.  For example, the garden needs watering frequently in mid to late summer.  Volunteers can coordinate with Roxanne to set times for watering that are best for them.

Where:  Outside of the library 222 E 11 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067 

When: The schedule will be available on the calendar on the library website: https://ropl.evanced.info/signup 

Contact:  Roxanne Plater, EMG at email: rxnplater@msn.com or Primary Phone: (248) 701-2021

Volunteer Central Project #:  https://msu.samaritan.com/custom/502/opp_details/2932