The information on this section of the Town of Pompey website, is posted here to gather ideas and input from our town residents as to the possibility of creating a group to be known as "Friends of Pratts Falls Park."
On Saturday November 6th, Bruce Stebbins, Debbie Ziggler-Stebbins and Newt Allen from the group Friends of Beaver Lake Nature Center," joined a crowded room of Pompey residents to discuss the correct way to establish a group to help save Pratts Falls Park. They spoke to the need of starting with a Mission Statement, and a set of bylaws to guide us in this venture. Supervisor Carole Marsh and County Legislator Bob DeMore were both present to answer questions as they arose.
Al LaFrance was kind enough to provide us with an in-depth history of the park and activities that went on in the past. Such as: Trapper' Association Meetings and Events, Ice Skating, 4-H, Bird Feeding, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Fishing Derbys, Greenhouse Days, County Sportsman's Days, Community Council Youth Activities and many other events.
Also discussed was the use of volunteers in the park to help keep it looking as it has currently and in the past. Volunteers will also be needed if the "Friends of Pratts Falls Park" becomes a reality.
The folks from Beaver Lake again suggested we set goals for the group prior to getting it established. They are as follows: A Mission Statement, a set of bylaws, and obtaining a Charter as a not-for-profit group (501C3).
The "Friends of Beaver Lake" Mission Statement simply reads;
Beaver Lake Nature Center's Mission: To foster local and global stewardship of nature through diverse recreational and educational opportunities that enhance visitor's awareness, appreciation, and understanding of the natural world. The mission of the Friends of Beaver Lake, Inc. is to provide resources and volunteer support to the Nature Center as it carries out its mission.
To read a copy of Beaver Lakes' bylaws, click here.
More information will be posted as it is received. Anyone with ideas or comments, please e-mail prattsfalls@townofpompey.com