Rotary RIPS

What a RIPS Roaring Day!

We ripped heaps of ivy and logged 45 walnut trees/sapplings. The light can reach the forest floor now and the native species will have a chance.

It was a fantastic team! 51 people turned up to help in different ways. The Rotoractors had the strength and energy not only to take down the trees but to roll up the ivy in a ball like carpet!

The Rotary Campers and their families were amazing. It was fun  watching the parents work with Ruth Foster to teach their kids how to use the tools and to work together.

 Julia was there bright and early setting up the food. Then came Gray with a friend carrying the 50 plates that he asked Fred from Pasta Pollo to donate. Al was there helping setting up and greeting people. Nick took photos. Darrell and Krysta and their student worked really hard but.... Darrel kept complaining that he needed a beer. Jon Dominy not only put those long lean muscles to work but he spoke on behalf our club and noted that this is our first environmental project. Ian should be fined for having such cute kids and wife. They really pitched in. Dan and Marion came to greet the TD rep. In fact it was Dan's idea that we apply for the TD Grant.

Mandip from TD was so pleased that she has invited us to apply for another grant.

Port Moody Ecological Society was happy to work with us.

Rick Saunier from the City has hired someone to come and chip the walnut trees and haul all the ivy away. We are talking about removing the new samplings that will sprout next year and thinking about some other initiatives.

Mayor Clay unveiled the sign and said that it would have cost the city $30,000 to accomplish what we did that day. Now that number was off the top of his head so we can't quote it very far but.... we did make a difference that day.

 So Hurray! Rotary RIPS! 

 Cleone Todgham

Rotary Club of Port Moody