162 Scout Troop Rain Garden Weeding and Mulch-Spreading Workday | July 20th

On July 20th, a scout troop took time out of their camping weekend near the South Dakota border to contribute to a vital community project: maintaining their three rain gardens. Despite the allure of a summer camping trip, ten dedicated scouts stepped up to care for the gardens, demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship.

The day began early, with a start time set for 10:00 AM. The city's contribution of high-quality bark mulch, delivered by a local conservation work crew, was ready to be spread across the gardens. This mulch is crucial for preventing rapid soil evaporation and suppressing new weed growth, vital tasks for the gardens' health.

In June, the troop had already done a commendable job weeding the gardens, but young weeds had started to reappear. The gardens were divided into three sections, and the scouts were organized into sub-groups, each responsible for a different garden. Under the supervision of their scout leader and with the support of several parents, the team worked diligently until 11:30 AM.

As progress was made, it became clear that the work was nearly complete but still needed finishing touches. The scout leader and one of the supervisors agreed that while significant strides had been made, additional help was required to complete the task. Thanks to a quick call for assistance, a dedicated volunteer stepped in to help finish the job, ensuring that the mulch was properly spread and the gardens were in top shape.

This workday was a testament to the troop’s dedication and the valuable lessons they are learning through their involvement. Several key aspects stood out:

Commitment to Stewardship: The ongoing maintenance of their rain gardens reflects the troop’s serious commitment to environmental stewardship. Their efforts to replant and restore gardens overrun with weeds show a deepened understanding of their stewardship role and pride in their work.

Skill Development: The scouts are acquiring valuable skills that enhance their gardening expertise. For example, one scout can now identify several problematic weeds, including musk thistle, pennycress, foxtail, and smartweed. This knowledge not only benefits the troop’s gardens but also enriches their overall understanding of garden management.

Innovation in Gardening Techniques: Some scouts have developed their own methods for managing the abundance of New England aster in the gardens. This creative problem-solving is a key part of their learning experience.

Seasonal Maintenance Evolution: Two years ago, the troop leadership was unsure if scouts would be able to fit garden maintenance into their summer schedule. Now, the troop has shifted from a fall cleanup approach to a springtime weeding and stalk removal day. This new practice helps prevent insect larvae from overwintering in hollow stalks, thereby supporting the lifecycle of butterflies and pollinators that frequent the gardens.

As the workday concluded, the scouts set out new identification signs in each garden. These signs, featuring colorful images and informative text, will help passersby recognize the various plants and understand their roles in supporting local wildlife.

Overall, the Scouts Rain Garden Weeding and Mulch-Spreading Workday was a resounding success, showcasing the troop’s dedication, learning, and contribution to the community. Their hard work ensures that the rain gardens remain a vibrant and essential part of the local ecosystem.