By Lukas Kubasik
BSA Troop 127

Earning the rank of Eagle Scout is not easy. It is a journey that builds and tests the character, maturity and leadership of those seeking it. In order to earn the rank of Eagle, a scout must serve in a position of leadership, complete at least 21 merit badges, and lead a service project in the community. Recently I completed my service project on my path to Eagle Scout.

Given that scouts camp and explore the outdoors, it’s not surprising that many Eagle Scout candidates choose to do conservation projects. I enjoy the Yahara River and have seen the beautiful wood ducks that live along it. When I noticed some river areas have lost their nesting trees and many of the existing constructed wood duck houses were in poor repair, I knew what I wanted to do.

I asked the Friends of the Yahara River Headwaters, a local conservation group, if their group would benefit from wood duck houses that could be placed in the Yahara River watershed. When they agreed, I sought out the best plans for wood duck houses, asked local businesses to help with supplies, recruited volunteers to construct the houses, and hosted a construction day.

I received supply donations from Wisconsin Building Supply, Ace Hardware and Fleet Farm. With these donations and amazing volunteer help, we were able to make 13 wood duck houses, which will be offered to conservation groups along the Yahara River. Each house that is put out can help offer habitat to these shy and beautiful ducks.

Leading a project like this was an amazing experience, and I was deeply impressed by the support from area businesses, fellow scouts and family members who helped me along the way.

BSA Troop 127 includes experienced scouts working toward Eagle rank and new scouts just beginning their scouting journey. Our upcoming activities include a week-long Boundary Waters canoe voyage, a weeklong summer camp, hikes, fishing, canoe outings and campouts. We meet every Thursday evening to have fun and plan our adventures. We welcome youth interested in experiencing adventure and doing fun stuff. For more information, contact Scoutmaster Justin Sargent, 608-220-2342.