March 19, 2024

Jason Arruda and Mary Arruda Scout Project at Peter’s Pond

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For his Eagle Project, Jason Arruda, Life Scout from Swansea Scout BSA Troop 303, met with Colleen Brown, Swansea Conservation Agent about a parcel of land in Ocean Grove on Peter’s Pond. The plan was to give access to ice skaters who use the pond in the winter. Jason received approval from the Board of Selectmen (12-12-17), the Swansea Conservation Commission on 3-12-18 and wrote the state application with Colleen Brown. After an extensive permit process, Jason worked with highway department to clear the land, Michael Galligan from Sherry Construction (donated 30 yards of loom) to level the land, and Matthew Beane from the Parks Department to dig a trench for the walkway. Under Jason's leadership and guidance, the scouts, leaders and volunteers from Troop 303 built the stone walkway, trimmed the land, cleared debris and raked and planted grass seed and fertilizer.

My daughter, Mary Arruda, a Cadette Girl Scout from Swansea Troop 1000, started Phase 2 of Peter’s Pond for her Girl Scout Silver Award Project. In addition to winter use of the property, Mary wanted to make it into a park-like setting. Mary's project included asking Nadeau Tree Service for the wood and Fancy Firewood to build a bench. Mary stained the bench. In addition, Mary built and planted a perennial raised flower bed, trees, a butterfly bush, and milkweed. The milkweed was given to her by Colleen Brown and is a continuation of her Bronze Award Project to attract the monarch butterflies. She also built, painted and hung three birdhouses. Mary wanted the property to be enjoyed year-round by residents. Citizens can sit on the bench and enjoy the beautiful flowers and watch the butterflies by Peter’s Pond. Mary has received confirmation from GSSNE that her Silver Award project has been approved. She has recently bridged up to Senior Girl Scout with her Troop 1000.

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