FORT BARFOOT, Va. –
Virginia National Guard Soldiers and civilian staff assigned to Fort Barfoot completed several beautification projects on and around the post in honor of Earth Day April 20, 2023, at Fort Barfoot, Virginia.
The installation conducts projects in support of Earth Day annually, however this year’s efforts encompassed more projects than usual, thanks to the support of the employees of Fort Barfoot’s different directorates.
Outside of the installation, at the intersection of Cox and Military Roads, Col. James C. Shaver Jr., the Fort Barfoot garrison commander, and Maj. Jason Simulcik, the Fort Barfoot Headquarters Company commander, planted holly bushes at the Fort Barfoot sign in coordination with Nottoway County administration.
“This initial beautification project was coordinated through Nottoway County Administrator, Mr. Ted Costin,” said Shaver. “It will serve as a base for the future addition of ornamental plantings with annual flowers, grasses, and other native and low maintenance specimens.”
At the site of the old post headquarters, staff from across the directorates planted various vegetables including peppers and tomatoes at the community garden. In addition, new birdhouses were erected.
“The men and women that work for the Department of Military Affairs took time to celebrate Earth Day,” explained John Sadler, a member of the Fort Barfoot Directorate of Public Works’ recycling team who helped organize a number of Earth Day initiatives. “This is the second year employees have planted a ‘Victory Garden’ for this celebration. Vegetables, herbs, and wildflowers were planted in raised beds at the former post headquarter’s location. Across from the ‘Victory Garden’ two newly-built bird houses sit under an oak tree on this hill. These bird houses were constructed from reclaimed wood.”
Outside of the Fort Barfoot Training Support Center, TSC staff and range operations employees planted flowers in a flower bed, using red, white and blue varieties which, when they emerge, will look like the American flag.
Range operations employees also conducted a litter pick-up around the Barfoot Reservoir, collecting trash and even a few larger items, including a tire and a metal can.
“The reservoir provides water to both the installation and Town of Blackstone as well as recreational activities such as fishing to the public,” said Simulcik. “Taking care of the these natural resources is crucial for the health and welfare of man and animals alike.”
In previous years, Fort Barfoot staff have planted wildflowers, planted trees, constructed gardens, built a flower bed and participated in various other clean-up and beautification projects. In 2022, they renovated and re-dedicated the Joy Nature Trail, providing a recreation area around one of the installation’s ponds.
Read more about Fort Barfoot at https://ngpa.us/25024.