A local Boy Scout plans to build a covered shelter for the New London Jaycees Dog Park.
Chasen Gardner, of New London Boy Scout Troop 59, will construct the shelter as his Eagle Scout project. He plans to begin the building process in the spring/summer of 2014.
The structure will be used by park patrons who seek shelter from inclement weather while enjoying the park.
The New London Jaycees have offered a donation to help support the project; however, additional money is needed for building materials.
Anyone wishing to donate can contact Chad Hoerth, director of the New London Park and Recreation Department, at 920-982-8521, and mention that the donation is in support of this project. Donor names can be added to the sponsor board at the park entrance.
Monetary contributions to the New London Park and Recreation Department are tax deductible.
Gardner knew he wanted to build something for his Eagle project. When he heard that the New London Jaycees Dog Park could really use a shelter, he was very interested in perusing the project.
He began setting up meetings with the New London Jaycees, the New London Park and Recreation Department, the city of New London, and the Boys Scouts of America to get approval to proceed with the project.
“Once word got out that a shelter was going to be built at the park, the patrons of the park were very enthusiastic to hear the news, and very much in support of the project,” Gardner said. “The work now is in gathering funds for the project.”
“The size of the structure will be dependent on the amount of funds received,” he added.
He estimates that the project will cost about $2,000. It is his goal to complete the project this summer.
Gardner began his involvement in Scouting with Cub Scouts. He crossed over into Boy Scouts and is now working toward earning the highest honor a scout can earn, to become an Eagle Scout.
One of the requirements to become an Eagle Scout is to complete an Eagle Scout project. The project requirements are to “plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community.”
Gardner’s favorite part of scouting is learning new skills, which his Eagle Scout project will enhance once the building process begins.