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Parks department reports: volunteer impact, tree‑planting goal and park maintenance updates
Summary
Parks staff reported a record Frosty 5 turnout of 349, volunteer contributions (35 volunteers, 93 donated hours, $3,235 impact), a grant-backed Root Crew tree‑planting target of 2,000 trees, progress at Ellery Park and Hi‑Dive boulders installation, and ranger activity and incident reports.
Parks staff told the Elkhart Parks Board on March 17 that programming and park improvements are gearing up for spring and summer.
Liz Stahlnaker reported Frosty 5 had a record 349 finishers and thanked sponsors including Goshen Health Orthopedics and Century Bank; she also outlined upcoming markets, STEAM camp dates and the five‑site Movies in the Park series. Andy reported Frosty 5 volunteer impact as 35 volunteers contributing 93 donated hours and a financial impact of $3,235.
Staff described a Root Crew partnership with the Elkhart Environmental Center and Trees for the Heart backed by a grant with a goal to plant about 2,000 trees over the coming years; the program now awards volunteer points redeemable for Parks Department prizes.
In capital projects, the superintendent’s update noted final design work at Ellery Park, installation of Hi‑Dive Park boulders by Rustic Rocks, a tentatively planned foundation fun day Aug. 8, and an annual report due near the end of the month. The superintendent also said Capra planning work continues under Mr. Moyers and monthly updates will be provided.
Assistant lead park ranger Bethany Ottman reported park visitation of 834 people (a 2% decrease from January), ranger engagement of 1,166 contacts (a 24% increase), and several incidents: beaver damage at Edgewater Park, an airsoft BB vandalism event at Ideal Beach (Elkhart County police filed a criminal mischief report), and a lost wallet reunited with its owner after staff found it at Bicentennial Park.
Board members asked about planning milestones and registration numbers for youth leagues; staff said camps and clinics are filling and will provide more frequent updates on CAPRA goals going forward.
