Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Northern Sunrise County is ready to take applications for its Yard Showcase April 1, their way of commending home, farm, and acreage owners for taking such great care of their property.
“Northern Sunrise County (NSC) hosts the Yard Showcase every year to promote community pride, encourage environmental stewardship, and create more vibrant and welcoming communities,” explains NSC Community Service director Amber Houle.
“By hosting this annual event, NSC provides an opportunity for residents to showcase their efforts in maintaining and enhancing their yards, while also fostering a sense of pride and ownership within the community,” she adds.
Houle hopes residents will share their outdoor green spaces for a chance to win.
“Showcasing yards in Northern Sunrise County is important because it recognizes residents’ hard work and inspires others to improve their own yards,” Houle explains.
“It helps build community pride and encourages everyone to take care of their surroundings.”
Three award categories are included in the competition: Farm Yard, Acreage Yard, and Hamlet Yard.
All winners will receive a custom yard plaque.
“When choosing winners for the Yard Showcase awards, we look for several qualities,” notes Houle.
“We consider the overall appearance, including how the yard is designed and how attractive it is. Creativity and originality are important, as well as how well the yard is maintained, such as through regular mowing, trimming, and upkeep. We also value environmentally friendly practices, like using native plants and water-efficient landscaping,” she adds.
Houle says last year only two awards were presented, as no applications were received in the Acreage category. The Farm Yard award was given to Henry and Linda Rondeau, and the Hamlet Yard award went to Jack Kramer.
“In preparation for the Yard Showcase awards, judges were selected to represent each ward and used a scoring system to determine the winners,” Houle says.
“A similar process will be followed in 2025.”
Houle says the showcase promotes better- looking yards in the community by encouraging residents to put more effort into maintaining and enhancing their properties.
“The recognition and rewards motivate individuals to take pride in their yards, knowing their hard work may be acknowledged,” she says.
“As more residents strive to improve their yards, it sets a positive example and creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to do the same,” she adds.
“Additionally, we feel that the friendly competition encourages people to stay engaged and continue improving their outdoor spaces.”