The Daniel Island Garden Club's Osprey Trail Takes Flight!

In early 2008, members of the Daniel Island Garden Club set out to help improve an overgrown wooded area that served as a buffer between the Daniel Island School and Daniel Island Drive. With a commitment for funding from the Daniel Island Community Fund in place, a planning team was established and presented with the goal of transforming the two-acre site into a series of beautiful gardens that would be connected by a meandering trail. The project quickly evolved to become the largest effort undertaken by the 12-year old Garden Club to date.

The team studied sun and shade patterns, soil conditions, topography, existing plant material and student traffic patterns to create a design for a space that would be both attractive and functional. A walking path was planned to lead visitors through the site. The resulting design incorporated six gardens that would showcase a variety of plants that thrive in the conditions of the Lowcountry: A Woodland Shade Garden, Southern Garden, Rose Garden, Bird and Butterfly Garden, Children’s Garden and a Japanese Garden.

As the installation began, the name “Osprey Trail” was chosen for the site, a nod to the Daniel Island School mascot, and to the several osprey nests located in areas near the school property.

“We’ve worked on several community beautification projects over the years, but this has been by far the most extensive effort our Club has undertaken,” says Garden Club member Pat Dietz, who coordinated the project. “We’re particularly proud that this trail and series of gardens will be an educational resource for both students and residents in the Daniel Island community.”
With the first phase of the project now complete, students, island residents and visitors are already enjoying the tranquil and interactive gardens. Most plants are identified with name plates, a detail that is intended to help educate visitors about the area’s native plants.

“We’d especially like to thank The Greenery, who handled the installation and provided technical advice along the way,” said Bob Uhler, the project’s design coordinator. “They went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that this ambitious community project was a success.”

As the plants along the Osprey Trail mature, a second phase will involve the incorporation of additional plantings and special features such as benches, sculptures and other art to enhance the site. The Garden Club will seek community contributions for these future additions.

Take a look at the below photo gallery from the Osprey Trail’s opening celebration.