Camp Freeland Leslie Reforestation
Friday 4/29/05: Troop 374 embarked on a unique experimental campout. Service was our only mission.
There are yellow ribbons on many of the trees in these photos. A yellow ribbon tied around an old oak tree normally means that someone is dearly missed and will hopefully safely return home as soon as possible. But if you are an Oak tree in central Wisconsin, a yellow ribbon means that you have been diagnosed with a fatal disease. Those who lived in Wheaton during the late 1960s may recall the Dutch Elm epidemic that wiped out a major portion of the trees in Wheaton.
The CFL campground was once heavily wooded with Oaks. But an ailment called Oak Wilt, which has already killed a significant number of them, continues to spread. Wheaton Troop 374's main mission this weekend was to plant 500 new trees, varying in species.
Our second mission was to help supply what will be needed so that CFL can have a new entrance way. It will be made of large stones. On Saturday afternoon, Wheaton Troop 374 brailed a local farm field hunting for large stones that could be used to help construct this new entry way.
Photo Gallery
Lessons Learned:
This turned out to be an interesting weekend for a number of reasons.
Four newer brothers (recent crossovers from the Packs) were part of this troop campout. Each of us started the process of building friendships with each of the new additions to our family. As our troop continues to grow, it is essential for each of us to remember that every scout is a treasured and unique individual.
We are all reminded how important it is to be really prepared. This is the first Troop 374 campout since Rock Cut (March 2001) where each participating scout survived freezing temperatures. We were blessed that it did not rain.
We learned more about tastes. The meals were prepared by the finest chefs our troop has ever had. Some scouts have preferences for simpler recipes, rather than intricate foods.
Most of us experienced a joy of serving, knowing that what we did during this weekend will be enjoyed by many generations to come. We also realized that large stones raising to the surface can create problems for farmer's equipment, including damage to their plows.
Much (more than ever we ever imagined) happens behind the scenes. CFL Ranger Josh has a "24-7" mission with so many irons in so many fires. We have all come to appreciate more than ever how much hard work it takes even the most motivated and dedicated person to manage a Council Scout camp. Josh is obviously very devoted to making the summer camp experience at CFL a memorable one by being unbelievably determined to make the facility one of the leading council camps in the country. THANK YOU, JOSH!
The food aspects of this trip were managed by Mr. D. and D.D.
Unless otherwise stated, photos on this trip by Dan Pearson
Last updated or reviewed 05/07/2007 11:29 AM - Please use the back arrow of your browser