Commack Boy Scout Troop 125 - Greenbelt Trail Hike and Trail Cleanup

Boy Scout Troop 125 took to the Greenbelt Trail last weekend for a troop hike and trail cleanup. The troop departed from the Cold Spring Harbor Library and headed south for a 5+ mile round-trip hike, which is a requirement for the younger scouts. The older scouts used their leadership skills to instruct the younger scouts about navigating trails, how to use a map and compass, leadership and the principles of Leave No Trace. These principles include Plan Ahead and Prepare, Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces, Dispose of Waste Properly, Leave What You Find, Minimize Campfire Impacts, Respect Wildlife and Be Considerate of Other Visitors.

Unfortunately, many others who use the trail do not Dispose of Waste Properly. The boys brought garbage bags and gloves and performed trail cleanup. This included the usual items like paper, plastic and glass bottles and broken glass. What was really frustrating to all of us was the number of plastic bags we encountered with dog feces. We cleaned up dozens of these bags, all of which are meant to be carried out by pet owners.

So, take this as a PSA… please, if you go anywhere with your pet and use a bag to clean up after them, take it with you and deposit it in the trash.

All in all, the boys had a fun time being outdoors, teaching and learning new skills and yes, even cleaning up trash.

Scouting offers a unique opportunity for youth participants to learn life skills (Leadership, Navigation, Leave No Trace), understand the importance of community (Trail Cleanup), and form lifelong bonds with fellow scouts.

Any child (boys and girls) from the 6th grade up can join Boy Scouts, regardless of prior experience. If your child may be interested or if you would like more information about scouting, please contact me at: mamisano@optonline.net

Troop website: https://troop125ny.org/