CALVIN

Visit the Ecosystem Preserve at Calvin College to discover more about native plants. This is the largest public garden in West Michigan! The Calvin native garden project began in 2016, thanks to a generous donation from a long-time supporter of the preserve. Native Edge worked with Calvin to develop a master plan for the Bunker Interpretive Center and surrounding ecosystem preserve, and construction commenced in June 2018. With the assistance of Calvin staff and volunteers, over 40,000 native plants, representing 200 different species, were planted. The preserve now features a demonstration garden around the Venema Plaza showcasing various native habitats to inspire home gardeners, additional paths to explore, views of South Pond, a small gardener's cottage for Calvin student employees (stewards) and volunteers, and a small greenhouse for displaying and selling native plants.