Eagle Scout project casts an eye on eagles

MILFORD — Joseph P. Loughney III of Milford recently completed an Eagle Scout service project that improved the eagle-viewing station and public access at Shohola Marsh Reservoir.

With help from other members of Shohola Boy Scout Troop 76, Joseph refurbished the parking and handicap access areas, repainted signs, and installed a new metal roof to the viewing station. Fresh paint on the station walls and door will further enhance visitors' experience.

“Each year, thousands of outdoor enthusiasts visit the viewing station at Shohola Marsh to watch bald eagles,” said Kevin Moran. “Joseph’s project will preserve this asset and increase the enjoyment of many visitors for many years to come.”

The project is located on State Game Lands 180.

Joseph led a group 11 Scout and adult volunteers that logged more than 100 hours of community service to complete the project. More than 100 tons of modified stone were delivered to the site to upgrade the parking lot. The old station roof was replaced by sturdy metal roofing, and Scouts scraped and re-stained the inside and outside of the structure. Informational signs were then replaced or given fresh coats of paint.

Eagle Scout service projects develop a Scout’s leadership skills and provide important lessons in project development and management. An Eagle Scout service project must benefit the community and it is considered the “application phase” of what an Eagle Scout candidate has learned thus far through Scouting.

Each year, the Game Commission works cooperatively with Boy Scouts across the state in their quest to become Eagle Scouts.