The Big Dig Oct 2022

Riviera Beach’s Big Dig was an outstanding success on Saturday October 15th.  Two hundred native plants were installed at Echo Drive by 25 residents and guests over a three-hour, perfect fall morning. Volunteers learned planting practices, the benefits of pollinators, and how storm water management benefits the Patapsco River watershed.

The Big Dig was led by Riviera Beach resident Dawn Hegarty, assisted by Donna Hergenroeder and funded by Unity Gardens.  Karen Royer, of Unity Gardens, kicked off the day by exclaiming, “It’s always great to give away money. This is the beginning. You guys are the seeds.” County Executive Steuart Pittman presented an Executive Citation to the Riviera Beach Community and said “The Council adopted the Green Infrastructure Master Plan by a 7 to 0 vote and it helps us to take care of greenspaces, take care of recs and parks, and take care of native species.”  Councilman Nathan Volke presented a Council Citation; then rolled up his sleeves to plant several dozen native plants. State Delegate Nic Kipke attended and gave volunteers encouraging words of support.

Thanks to all the volunteers and those who donated to the Echo Drive Pollinator Garden:

  • Unity Gardens
  • W.J. Hegarty Home Improvement for turf removal and soil improvement
  • Hope Springs Church (Pastor Chris Beatty) for the split rail fencing
  • The Anne Arundel Watershed Stewards Academy 
  • Gersebeck’s Market, Dunkin,  Harbour Liquors, and McDonalds. 


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