by Dennis Dalman
news@thenewsleaders.com
Two Eagle Scout projects – the planting of trees and construction of a fence in two parks – were approved by the Sartell City Council at its Aug. 12 meeting.
Tyler Cadlac, member of Sartell Troop 11, addressed the council and explained his Eagle Scout plans. He’s going to build a 100-foot-long split-rail fence between a biking path and the Watab River in Pinecone Regional Park. The path at that point, near the Bernick’s Arena, is located near a steep bank by the river, making it a potential danger for unwary walkers or bikers. The fence will be about four feet high. All the funds for the project have been raised, Cadlac noted.
Council member Steve Hennes said he has recently biked that trail, and the bank there is indeed quite steep. It could be dangerous for a biker who is, for example, texting while riding. Hennes suggested it would also be a good idea to plant a few pine trees along that area.
Duncan Watson, also a Troop 11 member, proposed to start a “tree nursery” in Pinecone Central Park, just north of the golf course. Using all-volunteers scout labor, they would plant about 40 red-bud elms on that area until the trees are stronger, then they could be transplanted to wherever the city needs them. The seedlings were donated to the city by Sam’s Club. Public Works Director Brad Borders said at this point the trees are quite weak and flimsy and would take another year to be strong enough to survive and hardy enough to withstand winter. The scouts would maintain and water the trees, Watson said.
Watson said there are several reasons he wants to do the tree-farm concept: as a habitat for animals and birds, as a beautification project and as an environmentally friendly project to help the air and water.
The council liked Watson’s project, but suggested the trees be planted instead on the west end of the park where there is virtually no shade now. Mayor Joe Perske said the trees would be ideal in future years so people at ballgames could have some shade to sit in and as a block from the setting sun for the players’ eyes. A big plus of planting the trees in that area is that there is irrigation there because of the ballfield grass. Watson agreed he could amend his Eagle Scout plan to plant the trees in that area instead.
