Boy Scout Troop to plant trees in downtown Ironton

Published 9:36 am Friday, April 23, 2010

IRONTON — On Saturday, Boy Scout Troop 106 will converge on downtown Ironton in order to plant trees in the medians between the streets and sidewalks to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Boy Scouts of America.

Scouts, family members and friends will join together to plant one tree for every 10 years of the Boy Scout existence in the United States.

Troop 106 will plant the trees in the area immediately surrounding the Ironton City Center.

Email newsletter signup

Senior Patrol Leader Caleb Franz said, “Some of the existing trees are dead. Some tree spaces remain empty. We wanted to improve the downtown area plus celebrate our anniversary of scouting. Besides,” he added with a grin, “we have a long history of going green.”

BSA Troop 106 raised the necessary funds to purchase and plant a total of 14 Cleveland Pear trees along the city streets and sidewalks.

“We started out hoping for 10 trees representing one tree for every 10 years of Scouting in America, but when the citizens of Ironton found out what the boys were planning,” according to David Lucas, Scoutmaster, “more enthusiasts wanted to join in and be a part of this venture.”

The city has removed the old or dying trees.

Troop 106 has the proper clearance from the city mayor and council to plant the trees on city property.

“This is a special day, not only for the city but also for the Boy Scouts,” added Lucas. “We proudly serve our community.”

Troop 106 celebrates 62 years of service to the community and country. Central Christian Church in Ironton charters the troop.

Boys 11 years and older join Scouting to have fun, enjoy the outdoors, plus learn character, values and citizenship. Ironton mayor Rich Blankenship said, “These boys clean up after the Memorial Day Parade and after the Gus Macker.

“The City of Ironton thanks Troop 106 for their concern and service. Our City will be better because of the actions of Boy Scout Troop 106.”

For more information call David Lucas at 740-533-0063 or 740-533-4577.