For over 100 years, the Dominican Sisters have loved and cared for the 34 acres of land at the corner of Fulton Street and Lakeside Drive. In small, yet important ways, we have faithfully worked to heal the land as science offers new ecological understandings.
As we learn more about the threats to the food chain, air and water quality, and climate change, we recognize the responsibility we have as women of faith to respond – and to respond now.
Urban Forestry – In response to the City of Grand Rapids’ goal of increasing the urban tree canopy to 40%, the Dominican Sisters, in collaboration with Friends of Grand Rapids Parks and Plaster Creek Steward have planted over 100 trees with more to come! What began as a dream to help increase Grand Rapids’ urban tree canopy grew into a much larger vision of transforming our whole 34-acre Marywood Campus.
Prairies were once found throughout all of Michigan. Today, there is a resurgence in understanding the role of prairies and their ecological benefits. Over 20 years ago, the Marywood Prairie Habitat was created. This little prairie, nurtured for years by Sister Lucille Janowiak, continues to offer a much-needed habitat where diverse plants and wildlife can flourish in the city.
Oak Savanna, once common throughout Michigan, are now one of the most endangered ecosystems in all of North America. They are regarded as a regional and national priority for protection and restoration efforts. The Sisters discovered that the Marywood Campus was once home to an Oak Hickory Savanna. One of the most significant things we can do is restore the savanna, giving new life to this nearly extinct ecosystem and all that relies on it for existence.
The Pond and Coldbrook Creek situated on the west side of the Campus will be protected from harmful runoff and invasive species by installing a natural buffer of trees, shrubs, and native plants. This will increase habitats for birds and pollinators, both in number and variety.
Contemplative Walkways and Gardens -To better experience and become immersed in nature, the South Campus will include gentle, meandering pathways able to accommodate walkers, wheelchairs, and strollers with several quiet seating areas along the way. The walkways will offer a safe, continuous route from Academy Manor and the Marywood parking lot, through the Oak Savanna and tiny hardwood forest, around the edge of the prairie, and in view of specialty gardens. Some of the specialty gardens will honor saints such as Kateri Tekakwitha, patron saint of Indigenous Peoples and Care for Creation; Abigail, patron saint of beekeepers; and Our Lady of Guadalupe, patron saint of Mexico and the Americas. The walkways will connect to the future sidewalk along Fulton and Lakeside Dr and a boardwalk bridge over a stretch of the wetlands.
Eco lawn – Most of the South Campus lawn will be replaced with Eco‑Lawn, a blend of fescue grasses and slow‑growing, drought‑tolerant turf that requires minimal water and mowing. Additional areas will transition to beautiful native grasses and low‑maintenance, low‑cost, eco‑friendly meadows. With their natural resilience, these meadows help the landscape withstand climate extremes while drawing down and storing significantly more carbon dioxide than traditional manicured lawns.
Today, the Prairie, & Gardens at Marywood is a vital ministry of the Dominican Sisters. We invite you to join with us in its mission to heal, transform, educate, and inspire — not only for today but for generations to come!
West Michigan Conservation Network 