Asheville, NC – Nestled in the heart of Asheville, Jones Park has long been a beloved community hub, offering both relaxation and recreation to visitors. In recent years, however, the park has transformed into more than just a green space. It has become a shining example of sustainability, demonstrating how small towns can integrate eco-friendly practices into public spaces and create positive impacts for future generations. This article explores how Jones Park has embraced sustainability, offering insights and inspiration for similar projects in small towns across the country.
A Vision for Sustainability in Jones Park
Jones Park’s journey toward sustainability began with a vision from local leaders and residents who wanted to ensure the park would remain a vibrant, thriving space for generations to come. The vision was clear: reduce environmental impact, enhance green spaces, and improve community involvement. Over the past few years, the park has undergone several transformations aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and increasing its environmental responsibility.
Key projects have included the installation of solar-powered lighting, the creation of a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation, and the implementation of composting programs to reduce waste. The park’s native plant gardens not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also provide habitats for local wildlife, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area.
These changes weren’t just about making the park more sustainable—they were about showing that even small-town spaces can make a big difference when it comes to environmental stewardship.
Solar Energy: Harnessing the Power of the Sun
One of the most noticeable changes at Jones Park is the shift toward solar-powered lighting. In 2020, the park began installing solar-powered streetlights throughout the grounds. This project was part of a broader effort to reduce the park’s reliance on traditional electricity sources.
By using solar panels to power the lights, the park is now saving energy and reducing its carbon emissions. These lights not only illuminate the walking paths and playgrounds but also serve as a model for small towns looking to cut energy costs while embracing sustainable technology.
“We wanted to set an example for the community,” says Sarah Thompson, the park’s sustainability coordinator. “By using solar power, we’re showing how even a small project can have a big environmental impact.”
Rainwater Harvesting: A Smart Solution for Irrigation
Water conservation is another major focus of Jones Park’s sustainability efforts. To reduce the park’s water usage, a rainwater harvesting system was installed in 2019. The system collects rainwater from the park’s buildings and stores it in large, underground tanks. This water is then used to irrigate the park’s lawns, gardens, and trees, reducing the need for municipal water.
Rainwater harvesting not only helps the park save money on water bills, but it also contributes to the overall environmental health of the park by reducing runoff and minimizing the strain on local water resources.
“Rainwater harvesting is a win-win for the park and the community,” says Thompson. “We’re conserving water, saving money, and keeping our park green all year round.”
Composting Programs: Reducing Waste, Enriching Soil
In addition to these energy and water-saving initiatives, Jones Park has also embraced composting as a way to manage waste and improve soil health. The park has set up several compost bins throughout its grounds, allowing park visitors and staff to dispose of organic waste like food scraps and yard trimmings.
The compost generated is then used to fertilize the park’s gardens and flower beds, creating a closed-loop system where waste is recycled into nutrient-rich soil. This reduces the amount of organic waste sent to landfills and provides the park with natural fertilizer that supports sustainable gardening practices.
“Composting is one of the easiest ways for communities to contribute to sustainability,” says Emily Hughes, a local environmental advocate. “It’s simple, cost-effective, and it benefits the environment.”
A Community-Focused Approach to Sustainability
What sets Jones Park apart as a model for sustainability in small towns is its community-focused approach. Local residents have played an essential role in the park’s transformation, contributing time, resources, and ideas to help make the park more sustainable.
In 2021, the park launched a community-driven sustainability committee, bringing together residents, local businesses, and environmental organizations to collaborate on projects and initiatives. The committee meets regularly to discuss new ways to improve the park’s sustainability efforts and to ensure that the park remains accessible and welcoming to all.
“We want to create a space where everyone feels invested,” says Thompson. “When the community is involved, sustainability becomes more than just a set of policies—it becomes a shared goal.”
Sustainability in Small-Town Parks: Lessons from Jones Park
The success of Jones Park as a model for sustainability offers valuable lessons for other small towns looking to make their own parks more environmentally friendly. One key takeaway is the importance of local involvement. By involving the community in sustainability efforts, towns can ensure that their initiatives are not only effective but also well-supported.
Another lesson is the importance of practical, cost-effective solutions. Many of the projects at Jones Park, such as solar-powered lighting and rainwater harvesting, are relatively simple to implement and provide long-term savings. Small towns don’t need large budgets to make meaningful sustainability improvements—they just need the willingness to think creatively and implement solutions that fit their unique needs.
Finally, Jones Park demonstrates that sustainability is about more than just environmental impact—it’s about creating spaces that connect people to nature and foster a sense of community pride. Whether it’s through energy-efficient lighting, water conservation, or waste reduction, sustainability initiatives in small-town parks can contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
Conclusion: The Future of Small-Town Sustainability
Jones Park’s sustainability initiatives have set an important precedent for small towns everywhere. By embracing solar energy, rainwater harvesting, composting, and community engagement, the park has not only enhanced its own environmental footprint but has also inspired other towns to follow suit.
As we look toward the future, more small towns may begin to see parks not just as recreational spaces but as models of sustainability, offering practical, community-driven solutions that improve both the environment and the quality of life for residents.
The example set by Jones Park shows that small steps can lead to big changes. With the right combination of innovation, community involvement, and environmental consciousness, small towns can make a significant impact on the future of sustainability.
What sustainability initiatives would you like to see in your local parks? Share your ideas in the comments below!
