BELPRE — A ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony was held Sept. 16 for the new Belpre Friendship Orchard at the corner of Campbell Drive and Boulevard Drive.

The orchard is a collaboration between Belpre Girl Scout Troops, the City of Belpre Tree Commission, and Mayor Susan Abdella.

The Friendship Orchard features a variety of fruit-bearing plants, including apple, pear, and cherry trees, as well as blueberry bushes. These plants were selected to provide not only fruit for the community but also support local wildlife and pollinators. The orchard represents a long-lasting, sustainable green space that contributes to both the beauty and ecological health of the area.

The project was funded by a grant from the Belpre Area Community Foundation and provided the Girl Scouts with hands-on experience in learning about trees, pollinators, and the proper care of plants. With guidance from the tree commission, they participated in every step of the process, from planting to mulching and ongoing care.

Tree Commission Chair Maxine Mobbs was enthusiastic for the project.

“The Girl Scouts did a fantastic job. This is more than just planting trees; it’s about teaching the next generation to care for our environment and understanding the importance of sustainability in our community,” she said.

After planting in the spring, Chris Barringer, foreman of the Belpre Street Department, made sure the young trees and bushes were consistently watered, even during the dry summer months.

Abdella praised the collaboration, stating, “This project exemplifies the power of teamwork. Watching our youth invest in making a lasting change is inspiring. As these trees and blueberry bushes grow, the Girl Scouts can take pride in knowing they’ve improved their community.”

The Friendship Orchard is part of the city’s broader commitment to expanding green spaces and fostering community involvement. By involving youth in these efforts, the city hopes to nurture a lifelong appreciation for nature and environmental stewardship, she said.