Building for birds: Scouts support public lands

Our public lands offer places and spaces where the public can make a real difference. Managing these lands is a big job, and we rely on dedicated volunteers to help us manage and improve them. That’s where partnerships with community organizations, like Scouts BSA, can shine. 

Two photos side by side. On the left, a young man wearing safety gloves works inside a shop, measuring and preparing wooden pieces for a birdhouse mount. On the right, a volunteer in protective welding gear and helmet welds the side of the metal mount, sparks flying as they work next to a green welding machine.
Left: Sam works to build the mounts for the bird house. Right: A volunteer welding the side of the mount of the bird house

Earlier this year, Sam Bender reached out looking for a meaningful volunteer project. Sam is working toward the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement in Scouting, which requires completing a service project that demonstrates leadership and benefits the community. 

After coordinating with our team, Sam chose to support wildlife habitat at the Pariette Wetlands, focusing on cavity-nesting bird species. With impressive leadership and organization, Sam assembled a group of 48 volunteers from his troop and community. Together, they contributed 318 hours building and installing bird boxes across the wetlands. 

Three images side by side. Left: A group of volunteers, including youth in Scout uniforms, work together to assemble cylindrical shelters made of wire and grass for bird boxes. Center: Three finished shelters sit in the bed of a pickup truck, lined up and ready for installation. Right: A person in waders stands in a marshy field, looking toward one of the installed bird boxes mounted above the reeds.
Left: Volunteers assemble bedding and shelter for the bird boxes. Center: Completed boxes lay in the back of a truck, ready to be mounted and installed. Right: Sam observes an installed bird box – move in ready for a mallard!

Thanks to their efforts, 15 sturdy nesting boxes are now in place, offering new shelter for waterfowl and songbirds. Sam also secured most of the materials through donations from local hardware and supply stores and partnered with Delta Waterfowl to ensure the project met ecological best practices. 

Sam’s project is a standout example of youth leadership, community collaboration, and stewardship in action. Efforts like his show how public lands and public service can go hand in hand for the benefit of both people and wildlife. 

A Boy Scout in uniform looks down as an adult leader pins the Eagle Scout medal to his chest. The scout wears a sash covered in merit badges, and other scouts are visible seated in the background.
Sam being awarded his Eagle Scout medal.

Following the success of his project, Sam achieved the rank of Eagle Scout; a well-earned recognition of his leadership and service. For other Scouts and community members interested in pursuing service projects, the BLM welcomes collaboration. Staff can work with interested groups to identify projects that align with current management needs, which are often restorative in nature and directly benefit the landscape. Those seeking opportunities to support public lands are encouraged to reach out to the BLM Utah Recreation Program Lead, Evan Glenn, at eglenn@blm.gov to explore potential projects that benefit both people and the land. 

Story by:

Blake Johnson, Public Affairs Specialist

Blog Topic:
Volunteers
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