MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - On May 19th, several classes from Bennett Woods Elementary teamed up with the Meridian Township Parks and Recreation Department and Monarch Watch for beautification efforts at Hartrick park.

The primary activity was the planting of milkweed for the local Monarch butterfly population. The Monarch population has been struggling in recent years, due in small part to the destruction of milkweed habitat. Monarch Watch is an organization that aims to protect the Monarch butterfly.

Kids also pulled garlic mustard while at the park. Garlic mustard is an invasive species that suppresses to growth of native vegetation.