
There’s a new addition at Descanso Gardens, courtesy of La Crescenta resident Elisabeth Hales and her Girl Scout Gold Award project. The 16-year-old CV High School junior designed and constructed a decomposed granite path leading from the west parking lot, through the picnic area to the welcome center. Descanso Gardens director of Horticulture and Garden Operations Rachel Young presented Hales with a list of improvement projects, and Hales chose the ambitious job of installing a path of more than 300 feet.
“My grandpa John Hales visits Descanso Gardens every day to exercise with his buddies, and I wanted to donate a project that would help him and other people with limited movement,” she said of her choice.
The path allows visitors who park in the overflow parking area – especially the elderly, handicapped and those with baby strollers – to access the entrance to the gardens easily. Hales said she is grateful to everyone who helped with her project, and is extremely pleased with the results.
“This project turned out to be more work than I thought, but it was totally worth it,” she said.
Supplies were donated by Descanso Gardens, businesses and individuals. Manpower was supplied by Hales’ family and friends from church and community.
The Girl Scout Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, recognizing girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through the Gold Award project. The project requires a sustainable contribution to the community and at least 80 hours of the Girl Scout’s time, not including the hours spent by helpers.