Quam speaks on gardening at Rotary

Gary Riffe introduced Vern Quam, Jamestown city forester, at the last Rotary meeting.

Quam came to James-town in April 2001 and has completed eight years as forester. His prior work experience includes working for the city of Fargo and the North Dakota Forest Service.

Quam shared pointers regarding why it’s important to take care of trees and shrubs, especially in the spring. He said, with the weather being so nice, people are excited and anxious to get outside, but they should give the ground a chance to have some time for drying before raking, thatching and fertilizing.

Quam marks diseased city trees, such as elms. About 150 to 175 trees are marked per year, he said.

President Dave Smette presided over the April 14 meeting. Rick Pfeiffer gave the prayer. Larry Hoffman and Kendra Rachel led the group in music. Rachel is a junior at Jamestown High School and is Rotary’s student representative from National Honor Society for April. She played the piano.

Gail Martin collected Happy Dollars for Rotary projects.

Sixteen students from Jamestown High School job shadowed with Rotary members and were guests at the meeting. Also in attendance were Gail Nelson and Jane Aune from the high school. The students shared some of their experiences at local businesses.

Smette reminded members that April 24 and 25 is the district conference in Minot. The program for the April 21 meeting is in the hands of Ross Stark. Reuben Liechty is responsible for the invocation, Marv Tokach will lead in music and Duane Dunn will be the sergeant at arms.

Smette said the city needs people to sandbag and any assistance that can be given by Rotarians over the next few weeks is appreciated.

Tags: community, gardening, quam