We Need to Talk About New Bedford's Not-So-Secret Daffodil Field

Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust (DNRT) confirmed on Wednesday, March 10 that the Parsons Reserve in Dartmouth would remain closed for the daffodil season in 2021 due to the pandemic. Typically beginning at the end of March and running through early May, the daffodil season normally brings thousands of visitors to Parsons Reserve. Inviting that many people into a relatively small outdoor area with very narrow trails is contrary to all public health guidance currently in place.

Many SouthCoast residents were extremely unhappy to hear that this field of yellow would not be open this season. I was disappointed to learn that I’d have to postpone spring photos with my nephews for another year, but something happened recently that made me think that might not be the case after all.

A coworker pointed out that there are beautiful daffodils in New Bedford that almost no one ever thinks about. The Friends of Buttonwood Park have been nurturing a beautiful display of flowers at the park for years and I finally stopped to smell them today.

Kasey Silvia / Townsquare Media

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As it turns out, the SouthCoast has not one, but two yellow fields to be proud of. If you are one of those people who were saddened to hear that Parsons Reserve was closed this season, I invite you to explore the field of daffodils at Buttonwood Park as soon as you are able to do so. Located across the street from the Community Center/Warming House, this garden is breathtaking. Honestly, the sweet aroma of these flowers in bloom was intoxicating.

The Friends of Buttonwood Park is looking for donations and volunteers if you are interested in supporting the group at this time. Click HERE for more information.

Kasey Silvia / Townsquare Media

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