Evolution of a Bridge

Above is an interesting progression of photos showing the original arched bridge as an idea to cover an open expanse (60') of water that connected the two main pits (now ponds) from the original sand and gravel mining that occurred at the turn of the century. The first picture shows that gap and if you look in the distance, you'll see a rough ramp on the far shore. This is the location of the future steps leading up to the gazebo and gazebo garden (2 years away from the time of that picture). The next couple of pictures show the use of laminated lumber found on site for the curved supports that would be developed and later lowered on to old light pole bases used as supports. Dave Knoerr, retired City Engineer for Janesville, was instrumental in getting this bridge created and positioned acurately. Dr. Yahr really had the original vision but it took many volunteers to get this project accomplished. This is the most photographed location in the garden and we continually repair and paint this structure to increase longevity.

Great crowd today with Marianne, Janice and Jenny working in the office on labels and various projects. I finished some plant ordering and am working on my next presentation (groundcovers). I had a nice talk in Amherst on Saturday about ferns & mosses and it was an energetic crowd. Samantha P. from Olbrich was up there as well giving a presentation. When showing the value of mosses during my talk, the images of Dale Sievert's garden in Waukesha elicited the most "oohs and aahs" (no surprise). Dale is an amazing gardener and his 1 acre property is immaculate and truly a labor of love. See below for some of his moss areas (photos by Dale). In regards to my travels up north, I love that part of WI and enjoy seeing Stevens Point after living there for two years while in grad school. Marv and Terry worked on bringing in more displays while Urban was out pruning. Larry and Bill brought in more cords and lights while Del and Dick W. continued to work on reindeer. Dick H. bounced around helping everyone. Maury and Dr. Gredler painted inside and the carpenter quartet continues to work on arches.