This October, during a check-in at Grandview High School I had the opportunity to meet with the Water Gardens Society of Greater Kansas City and learn more about their mission.

Water Gardens Society of Greater Kansas City is a  not-for-profit organization that supports the construction, preservation, and appreciation of water gardens throughout the Kansas City area. Promoting interest and enjoyment of water gardens and their environment with members and the general public while encouraging other organizations with similar goals.

That day they were there to help GHS students clean out their pond and prep it for the winter months. It was quite entertaining watching teens step into the pond with their waders and nets.

First, they cleaned out the leaves and removed large rocks that had fallen into the pond over time.

Then they pulled out thick mounds of water lettuce and duck weed that had grown over the years was a slippery and messy job.

Using a wet vac and a pump they suctioned as much of the water out of the pond. One thing we didn’t think they would find were fish in the pond….

But they did and they were surprisingly still alive!

(All fish involved were not hurt and were safely contained in a 5-gallon bucket)

Something I’m glad I learned about WGSGKC is that each summer, members from all around the metro open their gardens for the public to view. All Proceeds from the ticket sales fund community service projects and other educational activities.   Many of these projects are to benefit schools in the metro area.

If your school has a pond and would like to get it up and running email your questions to  email@kcwatergardens.com  or for more information visit their website https://www.kcwatergarden.com/