Eagle Scout Projects - Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve

The Muskegon Environmental Research & Education Society (MERES) has been fortunate to work with several local boys scouts on their eagle scout projects at the Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve. In 2011, MERES worked with Michael Walley and Stephen Kowalski on projects at the preserve.

Over the past 5 years, MERES has been focusing efforts at the preserve to remove non-native invasive species such as bittersweet, knotweed, phragmites, honeysuckle, and autumn olive. As part of this habitat restoration effort, native trees and shrubs have been planted in areas where the invasives have been removed to increase habitat diversity at the preserve. Michael Walley decided to aid in this effort and focus his eagle scout project on habitat restoration at the Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve. Michael chose the site at the preserve, prepared the site for planting, researched and picked appropriate native trees, and lead the planting effort. Michael's efforts will certainly benefit habitat at the preserve for years to come.

Stephen Kowalski put together a project proposal and presented it to the MERES board at their monthly meeting at the Muskegon Conservation Club. Stephen proposed to build 2 benches on the Al Bell Trail at the preserve as well as install wildlife habitat boxes around the preserve. Stephen raised the money for the benches, built the boxes with his troop, and worked with Jim Tobleck from MERES installing the benches and boxes at the preserve. Stephen chose a very ambitious project and it was very impressive how he made it all come together, Great Job! The benches and habitat boxes are great additions to the Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve.

MERES would like to thank Michael and Stephen for the work that they did at the preserve! Come out to the Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve and check out their work. Congratulations on becoming Eagle Scouts, it was a pleasure working with you!