City of Elgin to dedicate Eagle Scout tree planting project Aug. 12

On Saturday, Aug. 12, the community is invited to the dedication of an Eagle Scout service project at 4:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Park, 551 Lucille Ave. in Elgin.

The service project which includes 42 native trees planted in Willow Creek park was led by Graham Stocksdale of Scouts BSA Troop 10 of Elgin as part of the completion of his Eagle Scout rank.

Graham Stocksdale led the community tree planting project under the supervision of Greg Hulke, City of Elgin Parks Superintendent.

Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain will be accepting the project on behalf of the city.

The trees were planted by volunteers from Scouts BSA Troop 10 in Elgin, and ecologically minded citizens throughout the community.

The 42 trees were selected for being native to the region and for their importance to wildlife. These are trees that nationally recognized entomologist Doug Tallamy refers to as keystone species due to being essential to ecosystems.

For example, the oak trees (white, red, swamp white, and bur) that were planted are known to support 456 species of butterflies and moths. The native black cherries planted support 345 species of butterflies and moths.

Additionally, these provide nectar for pollinators and food for birds and other small animals. The new oaks, hickories, cherries and sycamores are planted in the park along side an existing grove of century-old oaks.

The trees and necessary equipment were purchased or donated through fundraising by Stocksdale from local businesses, organizations, and community members.

Major donations came from the Izaak Walton League of Elgin, Kirkpatrick, Jones & Herzog Insurance Agency and Carol Rauschenberger. Many of the trees were donated by Green Guerrilla Eco-Friendly Land Management. Materials were donated by Ziegler's Ace Hardware.

City officials, along with representatives from sponsor organizations, will be joining community members for this event.

For questions, call Paul Stocksdale at (847) 695-3686.