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Troen's Honored For Volunteer Work
Pope County Tribune - Starbuck Times
Written by Chad Koenen - Starbuck Times New Editor   
Friday, 27 February 2009 15:22


With so much land to manage on a limited budget, Troen said he contacted MWMD last year to see if there was anything his family could do to help take care of the property.

"It was just a way to give back a bit from all of the benefitting we've reaped," he said.

After hearing about the need for volunteers, the family began to take care of the one-mile trail last year. In addition to taking care of the land, Troen said he often hunts pheasants at Froland WPA which is near their home.

Not only did the volunteer work give the family a chance to give something back, but presented a real-life opportunity for Troen's Minnewaska Area science classes to learn about the environment. Last year some of the students went to Froland WPA to learn more about the invasive buckthorn species which was found in Froland WPA.

Troen said having the students go out to the park to learn and help get rid of the buckthorn, "was a good service project," for the students.

After spending countless hours volunteering throughout the summer, Troen said his three son's were excited to learn they were going to be honored as the MWMD 2008 Volunteers of the Year. While the award may have energized the entire family as they prepare for another year of volunteering at Froland WPA, Troen said the need for help doesn't stop with his family.

"They're always looking for more volunteers," he said.

For more information or to find out how to volunteer, contact Styron Bell at the MWMD at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.fws.gov/Midwest/morris.