Solon High School (SHS) students and the City of Solon teamed up Tuesday, April 22, in acknowledging Earth Day by making improvements at the Solon Recreation and Nature Area (SRNA).

Students in grades 9-11 and city staff visited a number of sites in Solon and performed tasks including mulching the entryway to the SRNA, picking up trash at the Solon Public Library and Veterans Memorial, weeding flower beds, and planting trees as part of an ongoing effort to replace those lost in the August 2020 derecho. Former Public Works Director Scott Kleppe applied for a $10,000 Iowa DNR grant for 64 trees, watering bags, and strapping. Ellie Jones, with Iowa DNR, demonstrated the proper techniques for planting, staking, and mulching.