Carpenter Preserve outlines five-year park plan with sheep grazing and tree planting events

The Neenah City Council meeting on April 19, 2025, focused on the implementation of a five-year park plan and upcoming community initiatives. Key discussions included the strategic importance of a color-coded budget plan for 2025, which outlines specific projects and their timelines, as well as the introduction of a unique sheep grazing program at Carpenter Preserve.

City officials emphasized the need for a structured approach to park development, comparing it to building a house where each phase must be completed before moving on to the next. The budget for 2025 was presented, highlighting a request for $100,000 to support various projects, with construction costs being estimated and subject to adjustments as more information becomes available.

A notable initiative discussed was the use of sheep to manage vegetation at Carpenter Preserve. This program, set to run from May through September, aims to cover six acres and is modeled after successful projects in other regions. Officials expressed optimism about the program, citing positive feedback from similar efforts in Dane County and Green Bay.

Additionally, the council announced a volunteer workday scheduled for May 3, where community members are invited to help plant 1,100 trees. This event is part of a broader effort to restore natural habitats by controlling invasive species and reestablishing native flora.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the budget and project plans for the upcoming years, ensuring that the city remains proactive in its park development efforts. The council aims to establish a core group of volunteers and improve communication with residents to foster community involvement in these initiatives.