Fifth grader Mollie O. is pictured working in the community garden planted by Girl Scout Troop 50075.
Geri Gibbons | For Abington Journal
Girl Scout Violet H. gets some help from her mother, Carlie, with work in the community garden that Troop 50075 planted in Platt Park.
Geri Gibbons | For Abington Journal
Girl Scout ‘Xena C. adds a plant to the troop’s community garden in Platt Park.
Geri Gibbons | For Abington Journal
Girl Scout Troop 50075 created a community garden in Platt Park, Dalton, as part of their Bronze Award.
Geri Gibbons | For Abington Journal
DALTON — Junior Girl Scouts from Troop 50075 recently did a bit of an upgrade to Platt Park in Dalton as part of their Bronze award.
Ten scouts, in fourth and fifth grade, put together a community garden, which troop leaders Megan O’Rourke and Ann Tonti hope will bring a smile to the faces of those visiting the pocket park.
O’Rourke pointed out that it’s usually only fifth grade junior scouts who are involved in attaining their Bronze Award. But, because it’s been a long two years during which a pandemic prevented a normal scouting experience, both grades were involved in the effort, and it worked out well, O’Rourke said.
During a time when many preferred outdoor activities, the scouts were able to accomplish a goal while spending time outside, she said.
The Bronze Award requires that scouts put together an “action plan” and then implement it. O’Rourke said that the girls planted various kinds of flowering plants in several areas of the park, which were designed to draw butterflies and hummingbirds. Many of the plants were pollinators, which ensure future generations of the colorful blooms.
“Those will draw even more color to the park,” she said.
O’Rourke also said that the troop will be visiting the pocket park each year to do a bit of Spring cleaning and perhaps even add a few more plants. In general, however, she said, the park will be self-sustaining. O’Rourke lauded borough council for approving the project, adding that council is also expected to approve a memorial plaque which will honor the Platt family. She’s also grateful for Corky’s Garden Path, which donated the plants.
