Plantings to help wildlife, prevent erosion

The service project was one of several middle school student volunteers completed around the community. Principal Nick Dressel coordinated the event with CSC Horticulturist Lucinda Mays, and Sheri Daniels, conservation programs coordinator with the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resource District.

Daniels said the plants, donated by the UNWNRD, will eventually create a windbreak on the ridge of a swale or water catchment area, between CSC’s Eagle Ridge housing units and 10th Street plus provide forage and protection for wildlife, catch snow and filter rainwater.

Chadron Middle School para-professional Liz Spencer said being outside while helping beautify the landscape was enjoyable.

“We need to give back to our community. It’s great the kids are learning to give back. I think they had a good time working together,” Spencer said.

Mays said she hopes some of the students who helped, dug holes, pruned roots and placed protective mesh sleeves over saplings will one day enroll at CSC

Chadron Middle School student Hannah Wegesser looked even further ahead.

“I think it will be fun to come back in 30 years and see the full-grown trees,” Wegesser said.

Angelina LaPorte, another student, also felt good about the time spent working outside.

“I have had an awesome time being out here planting trees and helping our community,” LaPorte said.