Boy Scout Troop Holding Open House Saturday

This was submitted by Boy Scout Troop 76, based in Andover.

Boy Scouts of Ballard Vale Troop 76 will be camping and holding an open house at the Andover Conservation Commission’s Pole Hill Reservation.  Visiting hours are 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday, May 21. 

The troop, sponsored by the Ballard Vale United Church, was recognized as stewards of the Reservation by the ACC as part of its efforts to get local Scouts to help spread the word about Andover’s green spaces.  Part of the agreement is that each year they host an event open to the public.  The Scouts will be displaying pioneering projects, fire safety, and Dutch oven cooking.  The troop will also have an orienteering scavenger hunt that visitors are welcome to try. 

Access to the area can be gained by land or water.  Trailheads are located at the end of Marland St. and Pole Hill Dr. Those wishing to paddle can put in the Shawsheen River at the Ballard Vale millpond and head upstream.  Once you pass under the historic stone arch railroad bridge, the reservation is on the right.

Troop 76 is part of West Wind District, Yankee Clipper Council, Boy Scouts of America.  They meet Friday nights, 7 p.m., at the Ballard Vale United Church, 23 Clark Rd., Andover.