Seeds of Care at Mount Sequoyah
Mount Sequoyah and IRWP have built a partnership based in care, collaboration, and environmental stewardship. We’re building on this by installing new Green Stormwater Infrastructure on the mountain, and engaging the public through hands-on education.
Mount Sequoyah is a special place in Fayetteville. Its elevation offers stunning views of the city, and its ridgeline marks the divide between the Illinois River watershed and the neighboring Beaver Lake watershed. Crucially, what happens on this mountaintop does not stay there. Managing stormwater well at top of the mountain helps protect the many neighbors downslope from erosion, flooding, and pollution.
Volunteers planting the bioswale, fall 2024
Mount Sequoyah has stepped up to take care of their watershed and their neighbors on the mountainside.
IRWP has been proud to support Mount Sequoyah’s investment in green infrastructure that manages runoff more responsibly. In 2024, that work included construction of a stormwater bioswale planted with 2,400 native plants and 100 new trees - and that was just the beginning. This year, we are deepening our partnership and expanding the mountain’s green infrastructure network. Additional rain gardens will connect with the bioswale to form a larger stormwater system, multiplying its benefits for both visitors and the environment.
We’re kicking off the next phase of Mount Sequoyah’s commitment to sustainability by co-hosting a rain garden workshop on campus. Taking place on Mother’s Day weekend, the event offers a chance to celebrate the caregivers in our lives by caring for the environment we all share.
Join us on the mountain for a
Rain Garden Workshop
May 9, 2026 ● 9-11 AM ● Free of charge
Participants will receive expert guidance on rain garden design and care, sketch out ideas for their own home gardens, and help plant the newest rain garden on the mountain. In honor of Mother’s Day, this event is designed for the whole family with activities planned for kids and parents! While the adults learn, children will be taken on a nature walk around the mountain designed to spark curiosity and care for the watershed. Moms and caregivers will take home a native plant of their own - a small reminder that stewardship begins by putting down roots, one act of care at a time.
