Linn County Trails Association

LCTA is an all-volunteer organization supporting the development of nature trails for recreation and commuting in Linn County, Iowa.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Trail Development and Site Beautification at Taylor School

Contributed by Brandi Holten of the Taylor community

Planting for the Future (PFF) is a project at Taylor Elementary School designed to revitalize the outdoor trails intended for everyday use by students and is a vibrant public space that welcomes visitors. The original trail was constructed 15 years ago and has overgrown over time. In addition, the flood of 2008 washed away the top layer of trail rock. An initial community project to replace the trail rock was completed in October of 2008 to begin trail revitalization. The landscaping and trail needed attention to enhance environmental education and aesthetics for students, staff, and community members.

Over 70 volunteers gathered on May 2nd to show their support for the reopening and revitalization of Taylor School. Several projects were completed, including construction of the new trail, grounds cleanup, preparation of the prairie grass area, planting of shrubs and trees, and reseeding grass.





Planting for the Future projects are made possible with the support of and collaboration with the following organizations: Iowa State Education Association: CLASS Grant and ISEA member donations; Trees Forever: Recover, Replant, Restore Grant; Linn County Trails Association; Hoffman Landscape Design; the Cedar Rapids Parks Department; Cedar Rapids Kernels Foundation; Rockwell Collins: Green Communities Grant; and the Taylor Community in general.

Future Planting for the Future Projects:
1. Adding at least five fitness stations along the trail
2. Planting a rain garden
3. Constructing a green house
4. Creating signage along the trail
5. Building an outdoor classroom
6. Planting prairie grasses and a butterfly garden

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