West Royalty Elementary School has acquired 10 acres of land adjacent to the school, which will be used to preserve and enhance natural green space in the community. Today, Principal Ken Gaudet, along with the West Royalty Home and School President, Mike MacDonald and MLA for Winsloe-West Royalty, Wayne Collins, attended a sod turning and tree planting ceremony at West Royalty Elementary School.
The plans for the newly acquired green space include assistance from Gary Schneider, who currently runs the Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project in Orwell Corner. Tree planting, cultivation of wildflowers, and the establishment of walking trails are some of the projects that will be worked on by students, volunteers, residents, and teachers to develop the property over the next five years.
“There is so much opportunity in the development of this newly acquired green space,” said Mr. Gaudet. “It can be a place where students can learn and experience nature while getting some outdoor exercise. In addition, other schools across the province can bring students here for educational experiences such as studying biology, bird migration, soils and wildlife.”
“We are very pleased that the land will be used by students and the people of this community for many years to come,” said Mr. MacDonald “Students will have a hands-on experience with the development of this land by helping with tree planting and things of that nature. The students will not only be helping to create a place where more school activities can be held, but providing an environmentally friendly place for community activities to take place as well.”
“This is a great addition to the community as well as to the school,” said MLA Mr. Collins on behalf of Development and Technology Minister Mike Currie. “The people in this community will have a meeting place to enjoy natural resources and outdoor activities. Parents, teachers, residents and students can work together to create this healthy environment that will be enjoyed by all.”
PEI Business Development owned the land but, through negotiations through MLA Wayne Collins, the West Royalty Home and School Association and the Eastern School board, the agency agreed to transfer the land to the Eastern School District.