“Getting to Know You” Resident Guest Speaker Program at The Atwater at Nocatee has announced that the guest speaker for June 20 will be Makaslyn Dunham, speaking on “Growing Beauty with Purpose at The Atwater.”
The presentation will be at 6:30 p.m. in the Great Room at the Atwater.
The Atwater at Nocatee has gained a vibrant new addition to their community not just in spirit but in blossoms and butterflies as well. Dunham, a recent arrival to the Atwater, is putting down roots and bringing her knowledge, passion and purpose to the community garden.
After graduating from the University of Kentucky, Lexington, just two weeks ago with a Bachelor of Science in forestry degree and a GPA of 3.9, Dunham moved to Ponte Vedra with her mother and sister. The trio quickly fell in love with the area, especially the unique sense of community in Nocatee. When choosing their new home, The Atwater stood out for many reasons but one feature sealed the deal: the community garden.
In her plot, Dunham chose to plant a cheerful array of zinnias. These colorful blooms do more than just brighten the space, they support the garden’s pollination system by attracting bees, helping fruit to set and thrive.
Dunham’s vision reaches beyond vegetables and flowers. She is also developing a beautiful butterfly garden that adds both charm and ecological purpose to the area.
Butterflies are very charismatic, she explains. While not as efficient at pollination as bees, they’re far more noticeable. When you care for one, you care for the other. She also shared the fact that butterflies have an incredible sense of smell and can detect their host plant from up to two miles away. After storms, it is not unusual to see new butterfly varieties blown in from different regions.
Looking to the future, Dunham has big dreams rooted in conservation and sustainability. Her goal is to become a consulting forester, helping landowners meet their land management goals, whether that means creating healthy wildlife habitats or sustainably producing timber.
With her energy, ability and environmental spirit, Dunham is already making a positive mark at The Atwater. Her garden is more than just a pretty space, it’s a reflection of her values, her education and her growing legacy to the community.
Residents, friends and the general public are invited to attend Dunham’s presentation. The Atwater is located at 50 Pine Shadow Pkwy. in Nocatee. Light refreshments will be served.
For more information, phone 904-320-1056.
