Stewart Watson

BOG is the Barclay Oliver Garden Project EST 2013

WONDERGROUND, an 8 lot green space I adopted in 2012 for the community.

After many years of picking up debris, garbage, cutting back weeds, I decided to take over much ignored vacant lots in our neighborhood. THE WONDERGROUND was the site of 8 houses torn down over 20 years ago, and left with debris, glass, brick and was not safe to play on. Adopted in 2012, it was important to preserve this space. Started without funding, I worked most weekend, growing a family of friends who also felt the desire to change things. In 2015, Neighborhood Design Center worked with the volunteers and the GWCA to hold a visioning session where the community chose what it hoped for, 5 years on, it is a healthy green heart of the neighborhood filled with trees, grass, a reflection space, seating, gardens and more!

BOG was the site of 3 houses that were razed in 2002 due to their derelict state.
In 2013, I called in a favour from the construction company working on what is now BDS (Baltimore Design Middle and High School ) across the street and asked them to clear the lot for us. I had testing done of the soil to be sure it was safe to plant in, purchased organic top soil, and with the help of friends, we set out to plot the garden. The garden plots are free, and there is now even a wait list. We have a wildflower plot for pollinators, and the rest are fruits and veg. The land has now been designated as a green space in perpetuity thanks to Monika and MaryAnne, who have grown the legacy of BOG, creating community garden and gathering space where we get our hands dirty.