(City of Lethbridge)

By Haven Thibert

Best Front Forward campaign inspires greener, friendlier front yards in Lethbridge

Nov 10, 2025 | 12:05 PM

Lethbridge residents put their creativity on display through the city’s first Best Front Forward campaign.

Launched by the Helen Schuler Nature Centre in March this year, the campaign encouraged homeowners to put some more thought into their front yards, with the goal of fostering more welcoming and environmentally friendly spaces.

Campaign participants could choose from more than 30 ideas, including planting pollinator-friendly species, adding public art, creating seating areas, and replacing turf with drought-tolerant plants.

Those who completed at least 15 initiatives earned a Gold Star for their efforts.

More than 80 Gold Stars were given in the campaign’s first year — a result that pleasantly surprised campaign creator Paige Rosner, who also serves as the centre’s environmental education program co-ordinator.

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“We created the campaign to inspire people to make their yards more ecologically productive and to connect with their neighbourhoods,” Rosner said.

“What we didn’t anticipate was just how many heartwarming stories would bloom along the way.”

The program also led to Front Yard Tours this summer, allowing the public to visit standout properties.

Five handcrafted little libraries were gifted to select Gold Star homes to promote sharing and community connection.

Rosner says planning is already underway for the 2026 relaunch of the campaign.

“We were blown away by the creativity, heart, and community spirit this first year,” she said. “I can’t wait to do it all again in March.”

Residents can learn more by visiting lethbridge.ca or calling 311.