Transformation demonstrates the possibilities
for creating a dream backyard using Bobcat equipment
Turlock, Calif., resident Julie Rummer now has her dream
backyard thanks to the Bobcat backyard makeover contest.
Last summer, Bobcat Company – a global equipment, innovation and
worksite solutions brand – announced that Rummer had won the
contest, which awarded her a $25,000 backyard makeover using Bobcat
equipment.
Rummer survived a car crash in 1995 that left her paralyzed as a
quadriplegic and dependent on a power wheelchair. An avid gardener,
Rummer loved to spend time in her backyard, but navigating loose,
dusty soil and thorny vegetation in her backyard became a
challenge. She described the yard as an “eyesore, a big disaster”
and an “embarrassment.”
Winning the contest has completely transformed her backyard into
a wheelchair-accessible “paradise,” according to Rummer’s husband
Rich. With the help of Bobcat and the use of equipment from local
dealer Bobcat Central, Inc., as well as the work of area
contractors and friends and family, Julie’s dreams became a
reality.
“I just feel happy; it’s a happy place to be,” she said about
her new backyard. “I can’t even shut the curtains at night, the
backyard is so beautiful. Having complete access to nature and my
garden is freedom.”
The backyard makeover demonstrated the power of Bobcat equipment
to get the job done, transforming the overgrown and compact
backyard into an accessible and aesthetic space for the Rummer
family.
“The team at Bobcat is thrilled that we could help Julie achieve
her dream of a wheelchair-accessible backyard with room to garden,
entertain and get away,” said Laura Ness Owens, Doosan Bobcat vice
president of brand and marketing. “Bobcat exists to empower people
to accomplish more, and this is a perfect example of doing just
that. We hope others are inspired by this transformation and
recognize the potential in their own outdoor spaces.”
Rummer’s project was kicked off by using a Bobcat skid-steer
loader to prepare the area, as well as the demolition and removal
of an existing patio, which made room for a new ramp that the
Rummers needed for their back door. Tree removal, relocation and
planting was done by HIS Tree Service and concrete work
preparations by Ultimate Concrete.
Then came Bobcat Central with a Bobcat MT100 mini track loader
to complete work in the fenced-in area. Crews installed concrete
paths, which was preferred for accessibility rather than stone
pathways or a patio.
The finished landscaping includes a water and irrigation system,
new drought-tolerant plants, compost and fertilizer. New cedar
mulch was placed to prevent weeds and hold moisture during the
summer. After additional lighting, a fire pit, sound system and
other items were installed, the job was done.
When Rummer submitted her contest application, she did not have
her hopes up. However, when her story was chosen as a finalist
entry, her community rallied to show support and help Rummer win
the grand prize.
“I appreciate everyone’s vote and everybody who picked up a
shovel or lent a hand clearing, shredding, spreading,” Rummer said.
“Every day can be a challenge for me, but the kindness, love and
support from everyone during this process just fills my heart. So,
thank you, Bobcat, for empowering me and making my backyard dream
come true.”
Media Resources: Go see before and after
photos of Rummer’s backyard makeover and view the multimedia assets
associated with this release available for download
here.
Keys to Bobcat Backyard Makeover Accessibility
Backyard accessibility involves creating an environment where
everyone can move around safely and comfortably, whether using a
wheelchair, a walker or walking. For Julie Rummer’s backyard,
Bobcat and the project contractors incorporated the following key
design elements into her backyard transformation to create an
accessible outdoor living space.
- Avoid Obstructions in the Yard: Create a clear path from
the house to the patio or garden. The path should be free of
obstacles. Level the ground to remove any major slopes, holes or
rocks. Use a compact loader with a landplane to level and
grade.
- Build a Ramp: Accessing the backyard can be challenging
for people who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility. In
addition, yards also may have uneven terrain, making them difficult
or even impossible to navigate. However, by adding a ramp, it is
possible to make backyards more accessible.
- Accessible Patio: It is crucial to ensure the patio or
deck is level and has enough space for wheelchairs to maneuver with
no obstacles. The minimum width for a wheelchair to turn around is
five feet.
- Provide Ideal Gardening Elements and Levels at Different
Heights: Create raised garden beds, install planters and use
trellises to accommodate people of all ages and abilities. Consider
a water irrigation system to make gardening convenient.
- Add Backyard Amenities: Consider incorporating lighting
in the backyard, firepits and sound systems to add additional
amenities and ways to enjoy the outdoors.
About Bobcat Company
Bobcat Company empowers people to accomplish more, a mission it
has honored since creating the compact equipment industry in 1958.
As a leading global manufacturer, Bobcat has a proud legacy of
innovation, delivering smart solutions to customers’ toughest
challenges. Backed by the support of a global dealership network,
Bobcat offers an extensive line of worksite solutions, including
loaders, excavators, tractors, utility vehicles, telehandlers,
mowers, turf renovation equipment, light compaction, portable
power, industrial air, forklifts, attachments, implements, parts
and services.
With its North American headquarters in West Fargo, North
Dakota, Bobcat leads the industry with its innovative offerings
designed to transform how the world works, builds cities and
supports communities for a more sustainable future. The Bobcat
brand is owned by Doosan Bobcat Inc., a company within Doosan
Group.
©2024 Bobcat Company. All rights reserved.
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Nadine Erckenbrack, Bobcat Public Relations Manager Email:
na.newsroom@doosan.com Mobile: 701-205-9207