Earth Day 2023 and 15 members of your Cutthroat Chapter of Trout Unlimited (CCTU) were at Bear Creek Park in Lakewood to assist in planting well over 1000 plants. The annual project started with the CCTU Board approving a $3,000 donation to the City of Lakewood to purchase plants as a part of our long term effort to partner with the city and help Bear Creek become a better river for fish and other aquatic species.
We awoke on Saturday morning, April 22nd to below freezing temperatures and snow! But, our volunteers arrived dressed for the weather and ready to work planting a variety of plants from large cottonwoods to small sedges around the lake and along Bear Creek. This year the project planted closer to the parking lot supporting the improvements the City has under contract to include a new bridge and improved trails.
By noon all the plants were in the ground and surrounded by wire fence to prevent people from walking on them as well as attempting to prevent deer, beaver and other animals from snacking. A short walk downstream to the work we have done in years past and the fruits of our labor were evident. The trees are established and this year’s leaves are starting to bud.
Despite the weather being more like winter than spring, a good time was had by all and a lot of work was done in a short amount of time. Finally, we are happy to report that no one fell into the creek!
Fueling up before we begin the day’s work.
Some of the trees that were planted.
Tools for the day
Most of the CCTU participants ready to get to work!
Receiving our instructions for all the various plantings we would complete.
Some of the work being done.
A well-deserved lunch and finally, a little sun to finish the day!