City’s best yards and gardens up for Yard of the Week award

By Stefanie Donahue

Folks on Blaine’s Yard of the Week committee are on the hunt for pristine lawns and

bright garden blooms. From May 4 through August 31, they plan to offer weekly awards to property owners throughout town.

The Yard of the Week committee. From l., Debbie Scherck, Debbie Harger, Sandie Miller, June Auld, Lorinda Dirks. Not shown: Carol Lipcot, Kelley Zuch and Paul Aitchison. Photos by Debbie Harger.

In an effort to encourage a more creative and beautiful Blaine, the city has rewarded residents within Blaine city limits who take pride in maintaining their yards and gardens since 2007. The award consists of a personalized “Yard of the Week” certificate, a yard sign and a notice in The Northern Light and on the city of Blaine website.

“Now is the time to spring clean your garden. Remove garden beds of dead leaves and branches, shape and trim up plants and add fresh soil,” said Yard of the Week committeemember and former head gardener at Peace Arch State Park, June Auld. “To add lasting warmth and color to your spring garden, try planting a variety of hardy flowering perennials, such as Candytuft, Basket of Gold and Lithodora.”

Throughout the year, Blaine’s Yard of the Week Committee helps to maintain landscaping around town. Recently, they revamped the roundabout near Harrison Avenue. “I love caring for the roundabouts and that people enjoy them,” said committeemember Lorinda Dirks.

To be eligible for the Yard of the Week award, property owners must reside within Blaine city limits. Their landscaping display should also be visible from the street. To nominate yourself or a friend, contact Blaine’s community development tourism coordinator Debbie Harger at 360/543-9982 or dharger@cityofblaine.com. To learn more about the Yard of the Week award and to view past winners, visit cityofblaine.com.