At our (now bi-weekly) recovery team meeting Commissioner Jacobson asked for volunteers to pick up rhododendrons from Thompson’s Nursery, Waldport and deliver them to Otis for Echo Mountain Fire Survivors. Today, I was one of two small pickups to make the journey. I really admire KJ’s (Commissioner Jacobson) boots on the ground involvement in the recovery of North Lincoln. For many months she spends at least one day week in Otis: she is genuinely committed.
Its was pretty cool to check out Thompsons – first time I have been there. Beautiful country up the Alsea. The facility was popping with coastal thriving growth potential. It had been several months since I had been to Otis and it was encouraging to see the progress. There is much to be done. Thankful the feeling of spring was in the this place!
I had the opportunity meet Adrienne DuRette who is providing storage space for many of Landscaping with Love’s donations. Its was amazing to hear her wildfire survivor experience and to also realize she is still living the aftermath like so many others: “move forward” was an affirmation she said more than once. Adrienne has been part of the community fabric since she was nine and she is inspired to restore the neighborhood and the people in Otis.
Landscaping with Love: “Our goal is to get local fire survivors’ yards replanted – everything from grass & bulbs to trees & shrubs. Soil testing may be needed (we are researching this). If you have plants, seeds, trees, etc. that you can donate, are willing to volunteer to help with planning or planting, or want to help with funding, please let us know! If you are a fire survivor and need help replanting your yard, let us know!”