Piedmont Park Feeds the Gorillas, Elephants and More at Zoo Atlanta

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The next time you go to Zoo Atlanta pay attention to what some of the animals are eating. You might recognize some of the food as plants you see at Piedmont Park.

You heard us right! The heart of downtown Atlanta is now a food source for the animals that live in Zoo Atlanta. 

Photo Credit: Zoo Atlanta

A few weeks ago, a staff member from Zoo Atlanta reached out to the Piedmont Park Conservancy to let us know about their Browse Program. The Zoo collects browse, leafy plants that many animals use as food in their natural habitats, from a few other businesses and parks around Atlanta. Our friends at the Zoo thought Piedmont Park could be a great source of these plants. 

It turns out that they were right! After a visit to the Park, Zoo Atlanta let us know that some of the plant species found in Piedmont Park would qualify as browse. Some examples include privet, bush honeysuckle, and elaeagnus, all invasive species that are regularly removed from the Park. It is worth noting that vines like english ivy can actually be poisonous to the animals. 

Thanks to our fantastic volunteers, Piedmont Park is able to provide about eight to 10 bags of these plants to the Zoo on a regular basis. Since the Park is so large, we are able to be a consistent source of these materials for the Zoo, and the Conservancy will continue to supply the Zoo with browse for the foreseeable future. 

The next time you visit Zoo Atlanta, pay special attention to the Gorillas, Elephants, Zebras, and monkeys you might recognize their snack! 

Photo Credit: Zoo Atlanta

Want to help? Volunteer or donate to the Piedmont Park Conservancy.

Support the Park

Five Fun and Distant Family Activities

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Have some summer fun in the Park with your family! Here are five socially distant  activities you can do in the Park.

  • Connect with Nature

Download our Backyard Birding activity, and see how many types of birds you can spot in Piedmont Park. You can also use our “iNaturalist Companion” download to take a hike around the Park.

  • Family Picnic

If you’re in the mood for a more relaxing day, sit on the Front Lawn and have a picnic. All you need is a blanket and a cooler full of your favorite foods.

  • Scavenger Hunt

Another great idea to keep the whole family entertained is a scavenger hunt. Download our Piedmont Park Nature Scavenger Hunt. We recommend starting your journey at the Welcome Plaza.
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  • Family Field Day

For an active experience, host a family field day! Bring a frisbee, soccer ball or football, and visit one of the many open fields at the Park to play all day.

  • Arts and Crafts

Finally, just have a quiet day with your loved ones. Find a shady spot and do some arts and crafts. Bring a mat for easy cleanup and finger paint. You could also make your own giant bubbles, impression sculptures with fallen leaves or beaded sun catchers. The possibilities are really endless.

We hope you are inspired by some of these activities and have a great day spending quality time with your loved ones! 

Want more? Find several family fun activities on our online learning hub. Also, receive updates and stay connected with live readings, YouTube activities and more by subscribing to our “Connect and Learn” Instagram page: @piedmontlearns

Author: Olivia O’Brien

Welcome Courtney Bugler, New Chief Development and Marketing Officer

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ATLANTA, GA, May 26, 2020. The Piedmont Park Conservancy welcomes Courtney Bugler as their new Chief Development and Marketing Officer. Bugler has over a decade of experience working in fundraising and nonprofit leadership including her most recent endeavor with Susan G. Komen as the National Director of the Race for the Cure and MORE THAN PINK Walk Series. She has held development roles at the Atlanta Humane Society, JDRF and more.

“We are thrilled to have Courtney join the Conservancy, said Mark Banta, Piedmont Park Conservancy’s President and CEO.  “These are unprecedented, challenging times for small nonprofits like ours. Courtney’s background, skills and passion will help us navigate through the financial impact of COVID-19 and beyond. She will be an integral leader on our team.”

“I couldn’t be more excited to join Piedmont Park Conservancy, an organization with such a history in Atlanta,” says Courtney Bugler. “Piedmont Park is the heart of our community, and as we’ve seen in recent weeks, vibrant greenspace is more important than ever.  As the world has changed in the past couple of months, the need for support has only increased.  I’m honored to apply my skills and passion to this role.”

The Piedmont Park Conservancy partnered with BoardWalk Consulting, a national firm based in Atlanta in their search for a new leader for their Development and Marketing teams. Courtney Bugler’s arrival comes at a critical time for the Conservancy’s development strategy due to the pandemic. Bugler joined the Conservancy on May 18, 2020.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3 million each year to enhance and maintain the park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

The Future is Green (Video)

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As our community begins to look forward, we have learned that there are things we can control and things we cannot. Making sure that we protect and invest in Piedmont Park is something we can control together as a community. We ask that you look toward this future with us.

Piedmont Park adds value to our city in many ways such as boosting our economy, contributing to our physical and mental health, and serving as Atlanta’s epicenter of culture. We must gather our resources together to preserve and enhance the Park so that we can ensure a bright and healthy future for our city. We believe that the success and health of future generations of Atlantans is linked to the prosperity and overall welfare of Piedmont Park. 

This is why the Conservancy works everyday to develop Piedmont Park as a cleaner, greener and healthier piece of essential urban infrastructure. For us to continue to provide this vibrant pathway of sustainable health and success for our community, we need your support. We rely on you to help us fulfill our mission of inspiring life in the heart of Atlanta.

Consider making a donation today and help us ensure that ‘Our Future is Green.’

Donate Today

Piedmont Park Conservancy Asks Visitors to Follow Public Health Guidelines

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ATLANTA, GA, May 7, 2020. The Piedmont Park Conservancy, the nonprofit group that preserves and enhances Piedmont Park in Atlanta, is encouraging visitors to abide by public health guidelines to help everyone stay safe while enjoying their experience.

With nice weather and Mother’s Day crowds expected this weekend, the Piedmont Park Conservancy asks all park visitors to observe these four guidelines:

  • Do not gather with people outside of your household.
  • Bring and wear masks during your visit.
  • Follow social distancing requirements by staying six feet away from others.
  • Plan to ‘pack it in, and pack it out.’ Be prepared to take your trash back home with you to reduce the impact of waste in Piedmont Park.

These guidelines will remain in place indefinitely.

Piedmont Park comprises more than 200 acres and offers a vast, beautiful refuge to Atlantans. By exercising personal responsibility and respecting the health and safety of others, visitors will help maintain the park’s resources.

WHERE

Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30306

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3 million each year to enhance and maintain the park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Green Concert Featuring Phish Has Been Postponed

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MEDIA ALERT

WHAT:

Due to the ongoing pandemic, Phish’s summer tour including The Green Concert on August 1 – 2, 2020 at Piedmont Park has been postponed. Piedmont Park Conservancy is working with the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office and the Department of Parks and Recreation to reschedule the fundraising event in summer 2021. More details will be announced soon.

All tickets and travel packages purchased will be honored for the rescheduled date. Refunds are also available at the place of purchase.

WHO:

Message from Phish: “We sadly have made the difficult decision to reschedule Phish’s entire 2020 summer tour, now moving to the summer of 2021. We’ve been as excited as ever to play music for you all, and are so heartbroken to postpone these dates. The health and well-being of Phish fans, our touring crew, and the communities in which the band plays is our top concern. Thank you for your understanding. We’re all in this together. Stay healthy and safe and we can’t wait to see you real soon.”

WHEN:

Updated Phish Tour Dates:

Jul 13 and 14, 2021 – Matthew Knight Arena – Eugene, OR
Jul 16, 17, and 18, 2021 – Gorge Amphitheatre – George, WA
Jul 20 and 21, 2021 – Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harvey’s – Stateline, NV
Jul 23, 2021 – The Forum – Inglewood, CA
Jul 24 and 25, 2021 – Chase Center – San Francisco, CA
Jul 28, 2021 – Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion – Rogers, AR
Jul 30, 2021 – Oak Mountain Amphitheatre – Pelham, AL
Aug 3 and 4, 2021 – Ascend Amphitheater – Nashville, TN
Aug 6, 7, and 8, 2021 – Ruoff Music Center – Noblesville, IN
Aug 10 and 11, 2021 – Giant Center – Hershey, PA
Aug 13, 14, and 15, 2021 – Atlantic City Beach – Atlantic City, NJ
Sep 3, 4, and 5, 2021 – Dick’s Sporting Goods Park – Commerce City, CO

The August 1 and 2, 2020 shows at Piedmont Park in Atlanta, Georgia are postponed, with new dates to be announced soon.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Sharon Goldmacher
communications 21, on behalf of The Green Concert 2020
[email protected]
404-814-1330

or

Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
[email protected]
404-480-3758

 

Piedmont Park Conservancy Celebrates ‘The Future is Green’

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ATLANTA, GA, April 28, 2020. On Thursday, April 23, the Piedmont Park Conservancy celebrated Piedmont Park’s significant contributions to the health of Atlanta and its green future. While supporters of this critical fundraiser were unable to gather in person under the big tent for Landmark Luncheon, they were treated to a unique digital program.

The keynote speaker, Catherine Nagel – Executive Director of the City Parks Alliance, highlighted the importance of parks as infrastructure during the current health crisis, and Mark Banta, President and CEO of the Conservancy talked about parks as active investment and the vital role that Piedmont Park plays in our city. The event’s presenting sponsor was Cox Enterprises and the reception sponsor was Georgia Power Company.

As part of the celebration, two awards were presented. The Green Giant Award presented by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation honored the Georgia-Pacific Foundation for its commitment toward greenspace and the environment. The Legacy Award recognized Laura Turner Seydel with the Captain Planet Foundation for her significant impact on the community and the city of Atlanta.

If you would like an inside look at the celebration, check out The Future is Green video.

Learn more about Landmark Luncheon.

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About Piedmont Park Conservancy®
The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3 million each year to enhance and maintain the park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park. For more information, visit www.piedmontpark.org/about.

Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Over 70 Trees Planted in Piedmont Park

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With a rapidly increasing population in Atlanta, fighting negative environmental impacts can seem impossible. However, the solution to this issue can be found in Piedmont Park: trees.

To prepare for the increase in visitors that spring brings, the Piedmont Park Conservancy has been hard at work over the past two months to ensure that the Park stays green and gorgeous for all. After collaborating with Trees Atlanta, Grady High School and our own staff and board members, 74 new trees were planted on Oak Hill, the Meadow and in the Dog Parks. These trees will help keep the Park cooler during the warm spring and summer months, remove pollution from the air and be a home for native birds and other pollinators.

Urban trees provide a multitude of benefits for all Park visitors including clean air, shade in the summer, a food source for pollinators and  a connection to a place and time. Newly planted trees offer hope for the future, and mature trees that live for 100 years act as historical markers for time and events. – Erica Glasener, Community Involvement and Events Manager

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is looking forward to continuing our dedication to providing a green space that is clean, safe and beautiful. However, we cannot do it alone. Your donation supports our efforts and keeps historic Piedmont Park clean, green and active.

Donate
PC: Bee Downtown

Bee Aware: Spring May Bring Honeybee Colonies to Piedmont Park

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If you’ve visited Piedmont Park recently, you may have noticed something unusual in the trees near the Invesco Beehives in the Piedmont Commons. You may also wonder if it was left there on accident.

Photo Credit: Bee Downtown

These biodegradable landscaping pots were hung in the trees on purpose by our friends at Bee Downtown. The pots are called “swarm traps” and are used for best beekeeping practices from the months of March through July. Honeybee colonies grow quickly, and when they outgrow their hive, spread through a process called swarming.

PC: Bee Downtown

Photo Credit: Bee Downtown

When a colony swarms, 60% of the bees leave the hive to search for a new one. The group takes flight, clusters up and latches on to whatever they can find while scout bees look for a new home. This is where the swarm traps are put to use. They provide a home for the colony and allow Bee Downtown to safely relocate the bees to a more permanent home.

While alarming at first, honeybee swarms are harmless. The bees have no home so they have nothing to defend and their bellies are so full of honey that they can’t bend over to sting!

Photo Credit: Bee Downtown

If you see a swarm anywhere, whether it’s on a tree or in a box, please call or text the Lead BDT Beekeeper, Nick Weaver, at 678-779-8143 or Pam Allen at 770-310-1673. 

If you have any bee-related questions or concerns, please email [email protected]

Top Ways to Celebrate Your Wedding in Piedmont Park

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Piedmont Park is no stranger to celebrating people’s most precious moments. From learning to ride a bike to daily strolls to keep active, Piedmont Park plays a role in all generations’ lifestyles! Now you’re engaged, and you are searching for the perfect spots to commemorate your wedding! Check out these top ways YOU can celebrate your wedding in Piedmont Park.

Engagement and Wedding Photos

One of the most popular destinations for pictures, Piedmont Park offers several vantage points to Atlanta’s fiancés and newlyweds!

Wedding Venues

Piedmont Park has three historic, gorgeous venues available to searching brides and grooms. The historical buildings, beautiful landscaping and iconic monuments in Piedmont Park create a unique fairy tale day for any wedding couple.

Dockside – Recite your vows on the dock or lush green lawn followed by a reception in the historic Visitor’s Center (under 50 guests), or any of our other rental venues.

Greystone – Host your ceremony on the back terrace overlooking the pool and Lake Clara Meer followed by an elegant reception inside the stately venue.

Magnolia Hall – Imagine your special day on a lush green lawn, just steps away from the renovated historic stable where your guests will enjoy dinner and dancing.

Rehearsal Dinner

Have your hopes set on a different venue, but want to incorporate Piedmont Park? Host your rehearsal dinner at one of Piedmont Park’s venues. Guests can enjoys walks before, during or after your dinner. Family will want to take those once-in-a-lifetime opportunity photos against the Atlanta skyline. People will be able to enjoy an iconic piece of Atlanta while still celebrating your union!

Piedmont Park Wedding Venues