Rhonda Juneau, of Portland, Maine, is a Habitat Steward in the program offered through the University of Maine Cooperative Extension in cooperation with the National Wildlife Federation. Rhonda chose a habitat/outdoor education project at The Catherine Morrill Day Nursery, in Portland, that serves 79 children. Rhonda emphasized native plant species and water-wise landscaping to create habitat and provide educational opportunities for them. The design features a rain garden, raised beds for annuals and a terraced walkway.

Families, Day Nursery staff, volunteers, and two area businesses donated labor, plants, and materials. Rhonda guided planning, coordinated activities, and researched design, native plant species, and educational activities. It is satisfying to think of the benefits to many people, places and wildlife in years to come.

Habitat Stewards^TM is a volunteer program of the National Wildlife Federation^® and, in Maine, is a joint effort with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.