Community News

Community Partnership Brings New Life to Norma Gibbs “Butterfly” Park

 

by: HBPIO
Published: January 13, 2026

 

 

HUNTINGTON BEACH...Thanks to a collaborative effort between community volunteers, a local garden club, and City staff, Norma Gibbs Park, fondly referred to as Butterfly Park, is now home to a newly installed overwintering nectary garden designed to support pollinators and native habitat.

With benefactor funding from the Sea Isle Garden Club, Charlie Gibbons of Rabbitbrush Native Landscaping partnered with Girl Scout Troop 1420 to bring this meaningful project to life. Sea Isle Garden Club funded the plants and supplies needed for the garden, while Charlie generously donated his time and professional expertise to guide the installation and educate participants.

Norma Gibbs (center) in Gibbs Park Photo:HBNewsfile

 

Clearing the garden beds in advance to guarantee a successful installation, on December 14, Charlie led the Girl Scouts in replanting the native species and provided hands-on training focused on proper establishment and long-term care. Girl Scout Troop 1420 will continue to play an important role in the project’s success by overseeing establishment care and watering for the next 18 months, alongside other community volunteers. Their ongoing commitment ensures the garden will thrive and continue supporting pollinators well into the future.

Norma Gibbs with daughter in Gibbs Park Photo:HBNewsfile

 

The project was coordinated by Community & Library Services staff, with assistance from Public Works, and served as the pilot for a soon-to-launch Grow HB Outdoor Volunteer Program, reflecting the City’s commitment to fostering community-driven improvements in our outdoor spaces.

This nectary garden is a wonderful example of how partnerships, volunteerism, and stewardship can come together to enhance our public spaces while educating and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders.

TopPhoto:HBPIO