California Trail Interpretive Center Benefits from Eagle Scout Project
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ELKO, Nev.— The California Trail Interpretive Center recently benefited from a local Eagle Scout project led by Life Scout, Mitchell Martin of Troop 261, Carlin, NV. Martin (16) began working on his project in August and after months of coordination with Ranger Alex Rose at the Trail Center the hiking trial and grounds maintenance project took place on Saturday, October 8.
Martin’s project focused on five leadership principles and the physical work improved the safety of the trials by clearing brush and filling in holes, making the trails safer for visitors. Assisting Martin in his project were more than 20 volunteers from his Troop 261 and Troops 89 and 93 from Elko.
“The Trail Center has several trails that provide beautiful views and this project improves trail safety,” said Martin.
From the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Advancement requirements the Life Scout is “to plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project to any religious institution, any school, or your community.”
For Martin’s project, the main component was hand tools and labor, he was able to receive donations from Bonanza Produce, Smiths and Walmart to feed his volunteers.
“Martin had the opportunity to learn leadership principles while mobilizing local Scouts and their families to assist in the following areas: Removing thistle from throughout the grounds and on the hiking trails, filling in badger and ground squirrel holes on the trails, pruning trees, and general trail maintenance,” said Park Ranger and volunteer coordinator Alex Rose.
Rose added, "We appreciate Martin and the Boy Scouts for their service and hard work, our grounds and hiking trails look fantastic."
For more information about volunteering at the Trail Center or information on possible Scout Projects, contact Alex Rose at (775)738-1849.
For more information about the California Trail Interpretive Center call (775) 738-1849. Visit the Trail Center online at www.californiatrailcenter.org or https://www.facebook.com/
The California Trail Interpretive Center is located eight miles west of Elko on I-80, Hunter exit 292. The Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.