Three lawns and gardens around Dowagiac, and their owners, were given the Beautification Award Wednesday afternoon by representatives of the Town and County Garden Club.

Three residents received a first-, second- or third-place award and cash prize for having “the most beautiful yard.”

First-place winners were Karen and Scott Dodd, of 29329 Saddlebred Lane, who received $75 for their sprawling green lawn and landscaping. Second place was awarded to Tom Burling, of 56278 M-51, with gardens wrapping around his house and throughout his backyard. Third place was given to George and Linda Losey, of 410 Courtland St., who have several separate gardens around their property, accompanied by a bird sanctuary.

“We surveyed 16 homes throughout the city,” garden club member Ann Leatz said. “We just looked for homes that were worthy of the Beautification Award.”

Those homes also had to meet certain requirements, such as all yard work being completed by the homeowners and living within two miles of Dowagiac’s city limits.

For the Dodds, Karen said Scott takes charge of caring for the lawn and surrounding gardens with her help, sometimes putting 12 hours a week into the task.

“He’s really particular on how he does it,” Karen said. “But it’s great to see him recognized for all his hard work.”

Burling, who received a $50 cash prize, began transforming his green space shortly after moving into his home in 1978. Since then, pieces have come together in mini projects, finally forming a mass of brightly colored perennials and lush plants.

“I probably put around three hours weekly into caring for it,” Burling said. “But once you get the foundation started and it takes off on its own, you don’t have to spend hours and hours keeping it up.”

The Loseys decided that with several small gardens gracing their yard, they would name each one. The list includes a welcome garden, the corner garden, George’s garden on one side of the house, and Linda’s garden on the other.

“We began about two or three years ago, just pulling up brush and ivy,” Linda said.

Each person was presented a plaque with his or her prize. The garden club also announced honorable mentions, which include: Barbara Moses, 301 N. Lowe St.; Alice Robbins, 206 Paris Ave.; and Renee Starrett, 603 ½ Orchard St.

The Town and Country Garden Club meet on the second Thursday of each month April through December. Residents interested in joining the garden club can attend meetings as a guest at First United Methodist Church, 326 N. Lowe St.