Boy Scout Island EarthCache
-
Difficulty:
-
-
Terrain:
-
Size: 
(not chosen)
Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions
in our disclaimer.
An earthcache on a local notable feature, Boy Scout Island, on the edge of the Fox River. Placed with permission from the St. Charles Park District.
Boy Scout Island is an unique feature among the nearby islands for two reasons. First, it is in fact not an island, but rather a peninsula. Second, it acts as a major benefit to the nearby environment due a recent restoration project.
A major source of pollution for the Fox River is Non-point Source Pollution (NPS Pollution). NPS Pollution comes from widespread, numerous smaller sources. These each contribute small amounts of pollutants, when carried by water, converge at the lowest elevation point in an area- in this case, the Fox River.
These sources vary in both locale and content, being both natural and man-made. Expensive garden chemicals are a common source found in neighborhoods, while tar and oil from roadways and parking lots are found virtually everywhere. From natural sources, dirt and soil, eroded over time, contribute to the problem as well. Rainwater, melted snow, and flooding all bring these pollutants to both the Fox and a few other low points (such as wetlands or small ponds/lakes).
Fortunately, restoration projects such as the one on Boy Scout Island help combat the pollutant issue by specifically handling the various causes. The restoration project reduces flooding in the area, and therefore the pollutants picked up via that source. The project also decreases erosion and sedimentation, greatly reducing the natural problems for the River.
The key to the project are deep-rooted plants, which serve myriad purposes. They stabilize the riverbanks with their root infrastructure. They greatly slow the run-off from heavy storms or consistent rain. The plants themselves actually continually filter pollutants as they are carried towards the river. Geese are discouraged from coming ashore here due to the amount of foliage. Aside from being a wildlife habitat in of itself, it helps make the island itself beautiful.
The posted coordinates will take you to parking for the island. It is important to note that the island is also a boating launch, and may be muggle-heavy at times. Please keep this in mind, and be respectful of others visiting the island.
Almost immediately south of parking you will find an informational board about the restoration project, which may help you answer the first 2 questions. The final question involves measuring the length of the island (see question below). As an additional note, when the river is high parts of the island may be submerged. Please use common sense and caution when the river is high.
To log this cache, message my account the following:
*The name of the cache you are contacting me about.
*The numbered answers to these 3 questions:
1) Was Boy Scout Island always a peninsula? If yes, what are the advantages to a peninsula? If no, why do you think it was changed?
2) Why do you think this site specifically was chosen for a restoration site over other nearby locations?
3) Find the length of Boy Scout Island. This is measured from the posted coordinates of the earthcache to the southern tip (the tip is defined as the log at the very southern edge of Boy Scout Island). When the river is significantly high, this may involve some estimation.
After you message me, feel free to post your log. If there are any discrepancies I'll contact you.
Congrats to j3yoda/athrillofthehunt for a speedy joint FTF!
Additional Hints
(No hints available.)