The Arboretum is grateful for the close relationship it has enjoyed with Boy Scout Troop 501, headquartered here at Landis. The troop was established in 2004 under the leadership of the late Chuck Stephens. The current scoutmaster is Chuck Whitman, and the troop has 12 members. That number will soon rise again as more young men cross over from the Cub Scouts. To date, 10 members have achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, and one additional boy is nearing completion of his qualifying project.
Landis would like to recognize the scouts for all their efforts on behalf of the Arboretum. Over the years, the scouts have been involved in many activities that have benefited both the Arboretum and the greater community. Here is a sampling of the work the troop has been instrumental in carrying out at Landis:
- building picnic tables and benches, blue bird houses and sign posts, and a split rail fence surrounding the Great Oak, the 400-year-old symbol of the Arboretum;
- construction of a storage shed adjacent to the Barn;
- serving as security and "wagon assistants" at the annual Landis spring and fall plant sales;
- assisting in the development of the Waterfall Trail and the maintenance of the Ancient Forest Trail;
- helping with the preparations for the annual 5K Forest Walk/Run;
- building an encampment, including a lean-to and eco-friendly outhouse, to serve as a permanent site for scouting activities;
- and hosting a regional Scout Jamboree onsite at the Arboretum
We are indebted to Troop 501 for these and other services they have provided to Landis. We appreciate and salute these future leaders for their deep commitment to our environmental mission.