Last night we held a special picnic for volunteers in CARP - the Columbia Aquatic Restoration Project. Over the last two years, volunteers have shared Saturday mornings with parks staff planting aquatic plants, doing maintenance along shorelines (aka - weeding!) and other projects to enhance our aquatic resources. Much of their work has been done at Stephens Lake, Flat Branch Park and Twin Lakes.Pictured here is Ken Torke (center) one of the dozen volunteers who was recognized for sharing at least 18 hours with the program. Councilman Chris Janku is to his left and Daniel Gibbins, Horticulturalist with Parks & Recreation, is on his right.
CARP volunteers begin the program by attending a three night class where they learn about aquatic management, plants, insects, stormwater, etc. - information that assists them during the volunteer experience. The 2009 class will be held on Monday evenings, March 2, 9 & 16 at the Park Management Center.
The CARP volunteers are hard workers - each dedicated to lending a hand in our parks. They also have a great sense of humor and like to have fun! I'm sure you would find being a CARPer quite rewarding and I invite you to join us as we start the program again in March.
Leigh Britt
