Fish, Floats, and the Fourth of July!
July 6, 2015
The last week at the Downeast Lakes Land Trust (DLLT) has been buzzing with activities in preparation for the Fourth of July. Staff, students, and volunteers were busy putting the finishing touches on DLLT’s parade float in time for the “Grand Lake Stream America” festivities this past Saturday. Many recent Farm Cove Community Forest projects have focused on stream management, arch culvert replacement, and improving 
native fish habitat, all of which became the theme and focus of this year’s float.
On Wednesday, June 24th, DLLT’s Education Committee organized a “Float Art Party” that had a fantastic turnout. Children painted large brook trout and salmon, created the lettering and signage, and drew their ideal healthy stream habitat. The banners created for the side of the float read: “DLLT – Restoring Stream Habitats For Future Generations.” With the details all finished, it was time for the float construction to take place.
Two days before the big parade, the float building commenced with generously donated materials, space, and time. Hammers, nails, and power tools in hand, staff and volunteers were able to create a picture-perfect view of native fish swimming freely through open streams. This event kicked off DLLT’s summer activity series, “Serious Skills for Boys and Girls,” a free weekly educational program for children ages 10-16, held every Thursday morning at the Grand Lake Stream School Building. For younger children ages 6-10, “Explorations and Adventures” will run every Tuesday morning at the same location. 
The parade was a huge success, with children riding on the float, tossing out gummy worms and fish along the way. Many special thanks go out to DLLT’s Education Committee, volunteers, and local children who helped make this year’s parade one to remember!
