Vienna

Congratulations to Girl Scouts of the Nation’s Capital Troop #50126 for their $500 Green Grants award to tackle litter in the parks!

Troop 50126, comprised of 13 vibrant fourth graders from Wolftrap Elementary School in Vienna, VA, have a passion for environmental stewardship. Their diverse interests, ranging from dance to sharks, converge in their shared dedication to nurturing their local environment. Originating from a camping trip tradition of shouting “pickles” followed by a group hug, they’ve transformed this into a symbol of unity and fun-loving spirit. Embracing the pickle theme wholeheartedly, they’ve even incorporated it into their upcoming rock climbing adventure with a custom troop shirt design exclaiming “Pickles Rock.” With playful patrol group names like “cornichons,” “bread & butter,” and “gherkins,” their camaraderie knows no bounds. Troop 50126 is more than just a group; they’re a community committed to keeping their corner of the world beautiful.

“Pickles Pick Up the Parks” is a multifaceted project of Troop 50126 as they expand their efforts to raise awareness about the significance of maintaining clean parks. This initiative also serves as their Bronze Award project, the highest accolade a Girl Scout Junior can achieve, requiring each scout to contribute a minimum of 20 hours. With the Green Grants’ support, the troop aims to equip volunteers with essential gear for public cleanups throughout the summer. They also plan to distribute native seeds accompanied by educational material emphasizing the importance of planting indigenous species for environmental preservation. They’ll even work to learn about and clear invasive plant species from area parks.

Recognizing the increased attendance at the parks during the summer months, particularly by families en route to the local pool and dog walkers seeking shade by the creek, the troop is determined to combat litter accumulation, including the persistent issue of abandoned pet waste bags. Through “Pickles Pick Up the Parks,” Troop 50126 is not only fostering a cleaner environment but also cultivating a sense of civic responsibility within the community.

Funds from the Green Grants award will go to purchase work gloves in child and adult sizes, reflective safety vests, litter grabbers, and trash bags.

The first goal the scouts set is to clean up Waverly and Foxstone Parks, which are 14.4 acres combined with only one trash can. The end goal is to get the County to install more trash cans to help address the issue, keep the park clean, and help wildlife stay healthy. In addition to helping these 13 young women learn the impacts of litter on the environment, they’re planning to educate others and spread awareness of these impacts to the general public.