The Swallowtails connected not only with each other, but with two other Boys Explorers Club groups- the Jumping Mice and the Storm Wolves- AND the numerous plants and animals that call Connelly Creek home.
Some highlights include:
- The removal of LOTS of tough, prickly non-native invasive Himalayan blackberry, which entails perseverance, digging, clipping, a strong work ethic, and attention to detail.
- Stomping many square feet of reed canary grass (the most effective tactic against a fast-spreading invasive).
- Moving tons (probably) of mulch from a pile taller than most of the Jumping Mice to prevent any more reed canary grass from growing.
- Protecting young native plants that the BEC had planted in seasons past. This required moving slowly to first identify the plant, then careful removal of invasives, then building a deer guard out of found sticks, and finally, laying down a mulch donut around the plant.
- Saving several native plants in a large fenced-in area that were COVERED in blackberry vines. The digging and clearing also revealed a giant root baby that you'll have to ask your daughter about. :)
- A discussion on the different service opportunities in our community and appreciating the BEC's perspective on service work at their site season after season.
The Swallowtails modeled a strong service ethic, how to be safe when serving, and most importantly (in my humble opinion), how to have fun while giving back to the other-than-human community we live in. We're super proud of these girls for a day well spent in the rain!
