River Eves Elementary Wins Grant To Create Nature Trail

ROSWELL, GA -- Roswell's River Eves Elementary School has been awarded a grant to create and maintain a nature trail.

The trail would provide students additional opportunities for environmental awareness, provide plant and tree identification and animal habitat studies, as well as address pollution and carbon footprint issues. 

Constellation, an Exelon Company, awarded the school the $500 gift as the school actively pursues community support.

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River Eves teacher Gayl Struletz was inspired to create the trail after she had the opportunity through The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center to study in Costa Rica last year. She’s led students in adopting the stream, completing water quality checks, and planting saplings – all located on the trail. 

“Our students have a budding interest in understanding our impact our environment and community,” Principal Neil Pinnock said. “We’re benefiting from the natural elements on our campus as we create another outdoor learning space with the trail.”

Jim Cullen, a member of the Roswell/Alpharetta Mountain Biking Organization (RAMBO), partnered with the school to cut the new path using his expertise in trail creation and gave advice on the long-term maintenance.

River Eves parent Sheri Whittier is applying for additional grant money, with a goal of receiving $2,000 for future efforts. She is also seeking volunteers to partner with the school for a variety of trail enhancements, including the installation of birdhouses, markers identifying plant species and more. 

Anyone interested in helping may contact Whittier at hunneyma@gmail.com.

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Photo 1: the new campus nature trail at River Eves Elementary was cut by Jim Cullen, a member of Roswell/Alpharetta Mountain Biking Organization (RAMBO), creating a new outdoor learning space for students.
Photo 2:  Fourth grade students at River Eves Elementary and teachers Gayl Struletz (back row left) and Cathy Mintz (back row second from right) proudly stand with their sign thanking the first company to provide a grant for the new campus nature trail.
Credits: River Eves Elementary School