Oceanside Girls Scouts beautify nature preserve

The Oceanside Association of Girl Scouts grabbed their gloves, spades and fresh flowers and gave the Marine Nature Study Area a much-needed makeover on April 14.

As part of their annual Marine Nature Study Area cleanup, over 70 Girl Scouts, their troop leaders and other volunteers came to the 52-acre preserve on Slice Drive to clean up and beautify the space, which is dedicated to environmental education and natural history. The little helping hands, ranging between ages 5 and 12, were seen planting native flowers and trees, hanging bird feeders and birdhouses, picking up trash from the marsh and the surrounding area — and recycling what they found, of course and painting rocks and seashells along the trails. They also took breaks to observe the birds and wildlife all around them.

“Through Girl Scouting, girls see the Earth as their home,” Oceanside Girl Scouts spokeswoman Michelle Geluso said. “Whether they’re learning about endangered wildlife, developing creative recycling projects, or working toward a grade-level award, girls focus on care, conservation and responsibility. They make sure the beauty and wonder of our planet endure for future generations to enjoy.”

The Girl Scouts paid tribute to the founder of the country’s original Girl Scouts, Juliette Gordon Low, a lover of nature. They honored her legacy with the event, and celebrated Earth Day along with it too.

“Building confidence, courage and character … these are just some of the goals of the Girl Scouts,” said Melissa Stender, chairperson of the event. “Make some time to see how beautiful the park is today!”