Cub Scouts Observe Earth Day with Riverwalk Cleanup

Last Saturday, Cub Scouts from Pack 17 Blackrock went on a conservation hike and cleanup along the length of the Phenix-Harris Riverwalk, a trail built on a former rail bed purchased from Penn Central Railroad, that connects Coventry and West Warwick.

The Scouts collected trash strewn along the dirt pathway while Cubmaster Dave Silva reviewed with them the scouting principles of "Leave No Trace", which include planning and prepare ahead of time, traveling and camping on durable surfaces to minimize disturbance of wildlife, proper waste disposal, leaving what you find (rocks, plants, animals, etc.), minimizing campfire impacts, respecting wildlife and being considerate of other visitors.

The hike also included a local history lesson. 

 "We were able to discuss how the pathway was used to supply coal via trains to the Arkwright Mill back in the day," said Silva.

Following the cleanup, which resulted in six full trash bags of litter, the Pack 17 Scouts enjoyed a hot dog boil in a nearby park, complete with chips, pickles and stuffed cherry peppers. 

"It was a great morning," said Silva.

Apart from participating in nature cleanups, annual scouting food drives and other community service projects, Pack 17 Scouts also bring holiday cheer to Coventry locals each year when they go Christmas caroling throughout the Blackrock area.