Another successful invasive removal took place this week, hosted by WaterWays, this time behind a private residence alongside Mountain Creek. But this wasn’t just any private residence; it also functions as an occupational, nature-based therapy practice for children.
Started and run by Jenny Peet, Trendrils Therapy uses the benefits of nature through sensory and movement-rich experiences to support and help children grow. The program serves children with diagnoses such as Autism Spectrum, Cerebral Palsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and other types of developmental and neurological conditions.
The name Trendrils reflects the mission and values in Peet’s practice. A tendril is a part of a plant that acts as a strong, spiraling support, helping guide the vine along its best path for growth. Similarly, Peet’s therapy focuses on each child’s unique strengths and challenges, helping them find the support they need to grow, develop, and blossom. On her website, Peet writes,
“Growth does not always happen in a straightforward manner. Developmental charts often reveal curves. But if your child isn’t developing ‘typically,’ sometimes that curve can feel like you’re spiraling.”
Because her practice focuses on a safe outdoor environment, ensuring the area near the creek remains clear and accessible is essential, and that is where WaterWays staff and volunteers came in! Joined by a few furry friends, Mabel and Sabrina, the group headed to the creek bed equipped with handheld power saws, ready to cut down the invasive plants crowding the area.
Before long, piles of Privet, Japanese Honeysuckle, English Ivy, Bittersweet, and Kudzu branches began stacking high, some even taller than the volunteers. The invasive removal was a great success, and the transformation of the area was incredible to see. Even more rewarding was knowing that this transformed area would soon be enjoyed by the children using the space to learn and grow.
With fewer invasive species in the way, WaterWays will be able to implement livestaking in the area, introducing native riparian species to help stabilize creek banks, prevent erosion, and restore the natural ecosystem.
A special thank you goes to Jenny Peet for allowing us into her practice and outdoor space. To learn more about her nature-based occupational therapy, visit her website at Trendrils Therapy. We would also like to thank everyone who came out to our invasive removal efforts. If you are interested in participating in an invasive removal, email rosy@mywaterways.org to sign up!
