Jenny loved to travel so that she could explore the natural world. She loved to hike, bike, cross country ski, snowshoe and kayak. She had a keen eye for trees, shrubs, plants and all the critters that required them for food and shelter. In order to protect these natural ecosystems, she would donate time and money to conservation organizations. When she learned that lawns were not beneficial to wildlife, she converted hers to native plants. Mowing went from 40 minutes down to less than 3. Driven by her passion for nature Jenny became a Maine Master Gardner and always volunteered more hours than were required. As a gardener Jenny encouraged her clients to “go native”. When Jenny died her friends and family wondered what would be the most fitting tribute to a woman of such diverse interests and passions? Then a remarkable opportunity appeared!

In December of 2020 Kittery Land Trust purchased a 30 acre farm in Kittery from local horticulturalist Jackie Nooney. This acreage will become a multi-purpose landscape of farm leases, an educational center, a Giving Garden to feed to our community, and an outdoor recreation hub. Thanks to Kittery Land Trust, nestled in this vibrant, sustainable landscape will be Jenny’s Garden!

Working in partnership with the Kittery Land Trust, Gary will volunteer his time and expertise to restore the fallow lands to native habitat. One of these areas will be an “exclosure” dedicated to Jenny. Imagine a serene place where native plant and trees line the paths- labeled of course- to help educate visitors. Benches will be located in quiet, out of the way, locations so people can enjoy nature as it is meant to be. This will be a place people seek peace, come to be educated about native species, or wander in remembrance of Jenny. It is the most fitting tribute.

Gary’s inspiration for the Native Gardens of Kittery Land Trust are The Wild Gardens of Acadia and The Native Land Trust’s Garden in the Woods. Thomas Berger, a local garden designer and friend has been working on the garden’s design.

Your gift to this project will allow Gary to purchase the exclusive naming rights to Jenny’s Garden, to implement Thomas’ design, and to endow its care by Kittery Land Trust in perpetuity. It will be a living memorial to one of the liveliest women any of us will ever know.

As Gary says, “I can think of no better tribute than to name this parcel at the Nooney Farm Education Center after my beloved wife Jenny. She loved and gave this community so much while she lived.”