FRYEBURG – Workers installed a foot-bridge and stairway for the schoolyard habitat nature trail behind the C.A.Snow School recently.

The bridge and stairs allow safe, easy access to the brook and future nature paths behind the school.

The bridge and stairs were a gift to the elementary school from Shirley Golvin in memory of her husband, David Golvin.

The system was designed and built by Great Northern Docks in Naples and installed by North Country Docks of North Conway, N.H. Great Northern Docks planned the system to hug the natural landscape without disturbing surrounding trees or interrupting the natural flow of the brook.

The 40-foot bridge spans the brook and wetland on both sides so the students stay dry and the wetland remains undisturbed. Slightly frozen ground allowed North Country Docks to install the bridge without disturbing the wetland area beside the brook.

Teacher Kathy McGreavy spearheaded the project as part of the Schoolyard Habitat Project.

She hopes to continue to develop hands-on, outdoor educational areas as part of the Schoolyard Habitat Project, making learning interesting and fun for children at the school. Persons interested in donating to the project should contact McGreavy at the school.

The bridge and stairs will be used for observation of wildlife, trees, plants and aquatic life in and around the brook behind the school. The bridge system will also enable safer hiking and access to snowshoe trails.

The first children crossed the bridge with their teacher on Dec. 13 and classes will explore the new habitat throughout this week.

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