To hear what the implementation stage entails, click here.
9. Project Needs
Before soliciting assistance to make your project a reality, you need to clearly identify exactly what resources are required. This means anticipating the physical steps, types and quantities of materials, plants, tools, equipment and the labour (skilled and otherwise) required.  To generate this list use the final design and walk through the process of installation starting with site preparation, then moving through the process to final clean-up.  Include any related activities that could be incorporated into the workdays such as musical entertainment, a ground breaking ceremony or a special media event.

10. Gather Donations
Finding the necessary resources is one of the most challenging and time-consuming tasks in creating a naturalization project.  It is essential to keep in mind that money is only one resource to seek - donations of materials, labour and skills are equally important. Most schoolyard naturalization projects realize their goals by taking advantage of all types of assistance.

Tapping Into The Community
Leverage the wealth of resources and knowledge within the school and surrounding community. A neighbour that is a landscape contractor willing to donate their time and equipment is as good as money.  Funding agencies like to see their support matched with gifts-in-kind as this shows that the project is well supported, which in turn increases its likelihood of long-term success.  Community fundraising efforts are also valuable. Many schools have found creative ways to raise money themselves such as walk-a-thons, plant sales and the selling of engraved bricks.  In addition to saving money, these strategies will foster community support and widen the impact of your naturalization project.

Targeting Funding Organizations
In order to select potential funding agencies, research their missions and donation policies on their website.  If the organization has a contact person for their funding program, get in touch.  They will be able to help determine the suitability of the project and may also provide some guidance when the proposal is being written. Be sure to begin the fundraising process early as many funding agencies require several months to make their decision. Any related deadlines should be included in the project timeline so you are not left scrambling to come up with the money.

For more information see ‘Funding your Project’.

11. Prepare for Installation
Planning for the actual installation of the site must begin several months ahead of the intended date.  When finalizing the details anticipate this work taking a few days.  The heavier work such as site preparation, re-grading, soil amendments, hard landscape construction and the planting of large trees is best done when students are not present.  Subsequent days can be reserved for planting smaller trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses, and the application of mulch.  This lighter work is ideal for involving the children and community members.

Co-ordinate the ordering and delivery of plants, materials, tools and equipment, keeping storage and access requirements in mind. Then organize the necessary volunteer and paid labour.  Consult with your school board representative on the details to ensure all safety and liability concerns have been addressed.  Additional insurance may be required.

12. Install the Site (Planting Day)
If you have done your planning thoroughly, this is where it all pays off.  The rewards are in seeing students and community getting their hands dirty and interacting with nature on their schoolground.  Ensure the event is documented – before and after photos are extremely powerful.  Keep everybody busy and safe, and watch the years of planning come to fruition. 

For more information on planning and executing planting days, see the Resources page.