November 2, 2010
-For Immediate Release
Contact: Susan Conbere, DRPress@drintl.com, 301-588-9387
D&R International Partnership with Parks Department
Yields Silver Spring Demonstration Garden
Silver Spring, MD, November 2, 2010 — D&R International, a Silver Spring-based environmental consulting firm, has partnered with the Montgomery County Department of Parks to develop the county’s first voluntary government-business garden.
Located at the gateway to the Silver Spring business district, the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden at Woodside Urban Park includes more than 500 low-maintenance, drought-tolerant native plants and shrubs that attract wildlife. D&R worked closely with the Parks Development Division on garden layout, plant selection, and other project details. Bray & Scarff, a local kitchen and appliance retailer, also provided financial support for the project. Greenlink, a local landscaping company, donated the shrubs.
D&R initiated the project as a celebration of its 25th anniversary. “D&R has contributed to the community through various volunteer projects, but our 25th anniversary seemed a great time to undertake something bigger,” stated D&R President David P. Steiner. “This project allows us to connect to the local community and highlight the importance of resource conservation on a larger scale. We also hope this effort will serve as a model for other companies looking to give back to the community.”
After the first year, the plants will require very little water, which is appropriate for a region that experiences frequent droughts. The garden will also serve as a demonstration garden for educators and the public. D&R planted the garden, developed educational signage, and will provide ongoing maintenance.
Woodside Urban Park is located at the northwest corner of Spring Street and Georgia Avenue. The county recently renovated the playground; the park also features tennis courts and a skate park.
###
Founded in 1985 and based in Silver Spring, Maryland, D&R International is an environmental consulting firm that serves business, government, and nonprofits.