Cushing Park Pollinator Garden

Pollinator PowerWorks is partnering with the PEG Center for Art and Activism to bring native habitat to Cushing Park, one of Newburyport's most-visited community green spaces.

The project unfolds in two phases. In the first year, two pilot planting plots will be established at key entry points along the site, while the remainder of the planting strip is prepared through sheet mulching with cardboard and compost to build soil health for larger-scale planting the following season.

The site's long planting strip slopes toward a natural drainage channel, creating an opportunity for a rain-garden-inspired design with rock-lined waterways and water bars to manage runoff. Working closely with the City of Newburyport's Parks Department, the project team is confirming drainage function, maintenance expectations, and city guidelines before finalizing the plant palette and layout. Ecologically grounded, low-maintenance, and built to grow stronger each season. The project is using the Pollinator Plants Tool Kit as resource on plant selection for a new native garden.