By Mari Radtke
The O’Brien County Conservation Board was updated at its rescheduled regular board meeting on Monday December 13. Among the discussion of operations was the report about tree care in O’Brien County’s parks. Some trees have been removed from the county’s parks throughout the county. Mill Creek Park had many trees removed. The diseased, dead or dying trees were taken down. Replanting is in the planning stages with an emphasis to plant a broader variety of trees to minimize risk of devastation from a bug or blight like the Ash Borer.
Purchasing trees can be a big investment. Little Sioux Valley Conservation Association remains in place to assist Conservation with such projects. If you would like to donate a tree you can do so by making a donation to LSVCA. A donation can be made directly at either the Paullina or Sutherland Security State Bank branch, mailing a check to PO Box 74 Peterson, Iowa 51047.
Director Travis Scott also reported some planned upgrades for the cabins at Mill Creek. Privacy walls built around the lofts in the 12-person cabin is expected to happen this year, along with some maintenance.
The board heard an overview from Scott about his conversation toward improvements for Dog Creek. Water problems and weed growth have long been a problem at the north end. Scott explained he is beginning the process of collecting ideas to improve the water quality at the recreation area.