On a bright September morning, three buses carrying three of Triton High School's SLC classes and three of Triton Elementary’s 5th-grade classes arrived at Potawatomi Wildlife Park, eager to help with various projects throughout the park.
Park Manager Lacey Pfeiffer, Maintenance Employee Chad, and several key community members, including board members Wyatt Stephen, Keith McIntire, Alex Gaughan, and Marshall County Soil and Water district coordinator Jodi Overmeyer, greeted the group. After a brief welcome, the students were divided into teams, ready to tackle various tasks.
The primary focus of the day was the removal of invasive honeysuckle. Before diving into the work, students were given a quick lesson on how to identify the plant, why it’s invasive, and the importance of its removal. One student asked, “How do we know where to begin?” The park’s tree task force had surveyed the park and set a goal to clear specific areas each year. This year, the team focused on the Pine Trail. Armed with loppers, students worked in teams to cut down the honeysuckle while others dragged the branches to a tractor or trailer, where they were transported to a designated pile for drying and eventual burning.
In addition to invasive species removal, other groups of students tackled projects around the park. One team thoroughly cleaned the interactive Visitor Center, polishing woodwork, cleaning glass, and mopping floors. Another group organized the event closet at Bessinger Pavilion and tidied up the fire pit area by pulling weeds. Meanwhile, another group worked on cutting and laminating new maps and kids' scavenger hunts, which will be placed at the trail entrance for future visitors.
“We truly appreciate each volunteer who came out today,” said Lacey Pfeiffer. “It’s an honor to be chosen as one of the locations for Triton’s Give Back Day. The students’ efforts make a big difference in helping us maintain the park and preserve its natural beauty.”
Potawatomi Wildlife Park offers year-round opportunities for adventure, connection, and education from sunrise to sunset. Established in 1979 through Vernon Romine's vision, the park spans over 300 acres and aims to connect people with nature, local history, and the community through low-impact recreation and educational programming.
Please visit potawatomiwildlifepark.com for more information on Potawatomi Wildlife Park, volunteering opportunities, or to make a donation.
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