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From:TheBahamasWeekly.com Service Organizations
Nassau, Bahamas – The Delta Epsilon Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity volunteered this past Saturday at Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park to remove invasive cattails. Working alongside Bahamas National Trust (BNT) President Larry Glinton and park staff, the Sigma teamed cleared a large area of cattails which are threatening to take over the park, an Important Bird Area.
“Cattails occur naturally in wetlands and can become aggressive and invasive,” said Lynn Gape, Deputy Executive Director of the BNT. “What has happened at Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park is that the cattails have become so thick that the lack of air circulation around the boardwalk has caused major maintenance issues.” During a recent visit with representatives from Caribbean Landscaping to discuss a strategy for dealing with the cattails. Shanley Toote, manager at Caribbean Landscaping, went to his fraternity and told them about the problem and they immediately pledged $2,000 to help with supplies needed to manage the cattails plus volunteered to assist with the manpower needed to help manage the cattails once a quarter. “Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Sigmas' effort was the spirit of comradery that was displayed as they tackled the difficult task of cattail removal while up to their waists in water and mud,” said Larry Glinton, BNT President. “Their commitment to service is both refreshing and remarkable.” According to Cameron Saunders, BNT New Providence Park Warden, who has been dealing with the cattail problem on an ongoing basis, “these guys really did a great job. I cannot believe how large an area they cleared in just one morning. I am looking forward to working with them on a continuing basis and we thank them for their commitment to our environment.” As the day came to a close members of the BNT thanked the Sigmas for their hard work. One fraternity brother was heard to saying “It’s no problem. We are all about service and giving back to the community.”
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