Wasco County and The Dalles Little League Team Up to Enhance Kramer Field for Youth Baseball
From Wasco County Public Information Office:
By Stephanie Krell
The Dalles Ore. March 21, 2024 — In a heartening display of community spirit, Wasco County staff and The Dalles Little League families joined together in an initiative aimed at enhancing the ballfields at Kramer Field. Over the last two weekends, volunteers and staff gathered at the fields with shovels, rakes, and determination, in preparation for the 2024 season.
The project focused on getting the baseball fields into shape to provide better playing conditions for the youth of The Dalles. With the effort of 105 Little League volunteers, we accomplished extensive clean-up activities, ensuring that the fields were not only functional but also pristine for the upcoming season.
"We are incredibly grateful for the support of Wasco County and the tireless efforts of our Little League families," remarked Katie Kelley, The Dalles Little League Board President. "Their dedication to improving Kramer Field reflects a deep commitment to our community's youth and their recreational opportunities."
The collaborative endeavor saw volunteers working tirelessly, clearing debris, repairing batting cages, and improving the beloved community space. Through their combined efforts, the baseball fields underwent a refreshing restoration, signaling a fresh start for the upcoming season.
"This initiative underscores the power of collective action and community engagement," stated Tyler Stone, Wasco County Administrator. "By coming together, we not only improved our recreational facilities but also cultivated a sense of pride around Kramer Fields."
Overall, 14 trailer loads of sod and dirt totaling 100 yards were removed from the facility. An additional 50 yards worth of dirt was spread and crews are now in the process of distributing 60 yards of red rock. Volunteers and County staff rolled, dragged, and mowed the fields, repaired the fencing, and filled in the holes in the outfield. Baselines, plates, and mounds were re-cut and leveled for a safer playing surface and safety tracks on the outfield fences were cut and leveled. Northern Wasco PUD pitched in with bucket trucks to help rehang damaged power lines and extensive painting of the facilities was accomplished.
Crews are still working on the repair of the irrigation system, electrical systems, and gopher control. Fields are being sprayed for weeds, an extensive fertilization and weed control program will be initiated, and fencing repairs are also on the list for the next few weeks.
Come see for yourself how the hard work transformed the baseball fields and the remarkable impact that collaboration can achieve. With the support of Wasco County staff and the dedication of The Dalles Little League families, the community has set a shining example of collective action and civic pride.
The Dalles Little League will hold its opening ceremonies at 9 AM on Saturday, April 6th and we invite the community to celebrate with us. TDLL will host 18 baseball games on opening day with the first pitch at 10 AM. Play ball!
Support Local News
Available for Everyone; Funded by Readers
