Getting to know Horticulturist Matt Brown

Magnolia tree at Brincka Cross Gardens

Matt Brown began working as the horticulturist at Porter County Parks and Recreation earlier this summer. Since then, Brincka Cross Gardens has transformed and improved exponentially. He has spearheaded efforts to clear invasives and reclaim the gardens as some of the most beautiful and unique in the area.

We recently had the chance to talk with him about his efforts. Here are some of his thoughts.

What work have you completed so far at Brincka Cross Gardens?

With the help of our volunteer gardeners we have been able to reclaim much of the original gardens from overgrowth and invasive plants.  These areas include:  the Rhododendron Garden, the Daylily Garden, the Ornamental Grass Garden, The Spring Garden (which contains naturalized hostas, a witch hazel grove, a willow oak,  magnolias, and American Holly trees), as well as much of the Hosta Garden. We also have begun identifying and mapping the flora in the park, and replacing the various plants lost over the years to predation, severe weather, and neglect.

What are your plans for the next year at Brincka Cross Gardens?

Our goal for 2012 is to continue to implement the Brincka Cross Master Plan. This will include continuing to identify and map the flora at the park; restoring, as best we're able, the original gardens; the design and creation of new gardens (Woodland Garden, Fern Garden, Sky Garden, etc.); and the creation of walking paths throughout the park. We also hope to expand our volunteer program with such ideas as adopt-a-garden or possible design-a-garden. Also, we are planning to begin integrating sculpture and other art into the gardens.

What interested you in working with Porter County Parks and Recreation?

Originally my interest in working for the Parks Deptartment was mostly with the restoration and development of Brincka Cross, and the horticultural challenges that presented.  However, since I have been here, I have become very excited about the overall vision for the park system.  And I believe the department has the plan and people to implement that vision. It is fun to be a part of.

What are you most looking forward to next year?

I’m looking forward to working on the Community Garden project at Sunset Hill; and also working with Matt Howton to begin the wetlands restoration at Sunset Hill. But I'm most excited about continuing the restoration and development at Brincka Cross.

What are your overall thoughts on the position and work you are doing so far?

The work at Brincka Cross has been challenging and interesting. Hardly a day goes by I don't see a plant or creature I've never or rarely seen before. I'm often awed by the knowledge, creativity, and  foresight of the original owners of the property must have had to create the landscape here.  The volunteers at Brincka are great - eager, hardworking, and conscientious, and save me many hours of work.  The Park Deptartment staff are also great, easily the most creative, cooperative, and genuinely nice group of people I've worked with. 

Meet our new Wellness Coordinator!

Sara Grassmeyer

Sara Grassmeyer is passionate about spreading health and wellness education throughout the community. As the new Wellness Coordinator at Porter County Parks and Recreation, she has used this enthusiasm to create several new fitness programs that are beginning this in September. 

“I have learned that the community of Valparaiso has an immense amount of pride,” Grassmeyer, a native of Colorado, said. “People love it here and want to see local resources maximized, so it is my job to help highlight the natural beauty and attract people to enjoy their favorite activities, while learning new skills along the way.”  

All of the new wellness programs being offered by Porter County Parks and Recreation are taking place at Sunset Hill Farm County Park, 775 Meridian Road in Valparaiso. The scenic outdoor environment, combined with exercise that is ideal for any skill level, makes for a unique community resource, Grassmeyer said.

A Sunset Striders program begins on Tuesday, September 20, and takes place every Tuesday and Thursday through Nov. 10 from 4 to 5 p.m. Participants spend an hour walking the various trails at Sunset Hill Farm, enjoying nature while improving their overall fitness.

An Outdoor Circuit focusing on cardiovascular and muscle endurance will take place on Saturdays, Sept. 24 – Nov. 12, from 8 to 9 a.m. at Sunset Hill Farm, and a Nordic Walking class will also be offered on Saturdays, Sept. 24 – Nov. 12, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

All three of these programs are led by Grassmeyer and cost $30 for an entire eight-week session, or $5 per drop-in.

Grassmeyer is a certified American Council on Exercise Group Fitness Instructor. She said people of all skill levels and abilities should feel welcome and comfortable participating in any of the Fall Fitness Programs.

“My vision is to see our wellness programs continue to grow and appeal to all members of the community,” Grassmeyer said. “As an instructor, my goal is to provide the tools and education so that participants are comfortable taking my ideas and transforming them into what works for them.”

For more information, or to register, contact Sara Grassmeyer at 219-707-8281, or sgrassmeyer@porterco.org.