Continuing to annually repurpose and maintain any land can help renew economic value for the community.

At the same time, the increase in quality of life and the long-term viability provides benefits as well.

All those involved in the development along with the upkeep of the native plant garden should be commended for their efforts and taking the time and energy to complete something that will continue to be beneficial for Ironton and Lawrence County.

That was the case recently when various entities and organizations came together to replenish and perform maintenance on the garden at the St. Mary’s Medical Center’s Ironton campus just off the exit of US 52 and State Route 141.

While this year’s focus was on cleanup of the garden, several new species were planted to aid in future upkeep.

This not only serves the purpose of aesthetics at the St. Mary’s campus, but it can also lift the spirits of someone who may be visiting the campus for a medical reason or someone just passing by.

While the plants may not have an immediate impact from a visual standpoint, the impact of these plants will allow the beauty to be enjoyed for the foreseeable future.