Arrowe Park indigenous garden and tree planting
Peter Le Roux took initiative in the organizing and planting of trees at Arrowe Park campsite. Trees and 6 plants for a hedge were planted, permanently marking out campsite. 10 of the trees planted are fruit trees that will provide fruit for Cubs and Scouts in the future the rest of these trees are indigenous.
Prior to the project taking place the campsite staff prepared the holes; Cubs from two local district packs planted the trees. Some of the trees were donated during the course of the project. Project ran smoothly, the only challenge faced by the group was obtaining favorable prices and this was achieved by visiting a number of local nurseries. Kemiri nursery supplied trees at discounted rate.
Another challenge was having to wait as the project could only be carried out once the weather was warmed up in spring to minimize loss to frost. The trees are going to be an ongoing asset and benefit to Arrowe Park. Previously, the park staff had to maintain boundary markers for the campsites, but the trees now mark the corners of the site. The summer shade and seasonal food provided by the trees will also be a great benefit, flowers and fruit will also attract local bird and animal life.
Many of the Cubs (7-11 year olds) involved were excited to be planting trees and mentioned looking forward to harvesting fruit from the trees they have planted in the coming years. Campsite staffs are extremely grateful for the reduced workload, not having to mark out campsites in the future. Peter le Roux said this was the first time he has ever involved Cubs in volunteer service and he found them to be very enthusiastic and more capable than he had anticipated.