Cub Scouts take scrub jays under their wings
ROXANNE BROWN
Staff Writer
CLERMONT -- With shovels in hand, local Cub Scout Wolf Pack 268 arrived at the Florida Scrub Jay Trail ready to work.
The second-grade boys were greeted by owners Bruce and Cathy Brown along with three of the blue feathered friends that seemed to sense that the boys were there to plant trees just for them.
The outing was to raise the boys' awareness of nature and will earn them part of their conservation award.
"Activities like this help instill the concepts and values we're trying to teach the boys," pack leader Bert Merring said. "It reminds them that we're all part of this world together and that it's part of their responsibility to pass all they can to those after them."
The Scrub Jay Trail is a not-for-profit, educational venue designed to provide a natural habitat for many species of plants and animals, including the Scrub Jay, Florida's only endemic species.
The trail has been around since 2001 but was officially launched in 2003 with a grant from the National Wildlife Federation's Keep the Wild Alive, Species Recovery Fund.
Over the years, the Browns have maintained the 15 acres the trail runs through, clearing it of exotic and invasive plant materials and replanting it with scrub oaks, shrubs and groundcovers that attract scrub jays -- or that are listed as endangered species themselves.
Eventually, the trail will connect with other state trails.
The Browns do not do it alone though, and encourage any help they can get from individuals or community-oriented groups.
They have worked with Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts and Brownies, in addition to many church groups and garden clubs in the area. Cathy Brown said they also welcome individuals who wish to plant a memorial tree for someone or some cause.
"If there's anyone who wants to come out and plant a tree, we'll be glad to provide one, along with a shovel, gloves and instructions," Bruce Brown said.
Cathy Brown said they have groups that come out about once a week.
On Sunday, the Cub Scouts were given a tour of the grounds, then led to the area where their potted scrub oaks stood, waiting to be transplanted.
Following the Browns' instructions, the 40 trees were planted in just under two hours by the seven scouts, their leaders, siblings, family and friends.
Co-leader Tim Kohler said the troop has planted trees for the trail in the past, adding that it's a good way to teach the kids about the environment, the importance of wildlife and nature.
Friday, February 06, 2009 - www.dailycommercial.com/020609cub