The native plant restoration initiative aims to rejuvenate the forest understory, which suffered extensive damage due to deer intrusion during the pandemic. To address this, the council agreed to provide $25,000 each year for six years. This funding will cover the cost of buying, transporting, and maintaining new plants. The plan is to plant herbaceous species in spring and shrubs and saplings in fall, with additional protective measures to prevent future deer damage.

The second project involves repairing a back wall in the outdoor classroom area, which is at risk of collapse. The council allocated $47,000 to replace the old railroad ties with stone. The council members expressed confidence that these projects align with the intended use of the funds and are essential for maintaining the community’s valuable environmental resources.

During the meeting, it was confirmed that the deer fencing has been repaired, and additional precautions will be taken for the sensitive plants. The funding decision was unanimous, with the council underscoring the importance of supporting environmental sustainability and community education.