A months-long Eagle Scout project culminated Monday, April 18 when the Fire Department and Parks and Recreation staff helped a local teen improve the fish habitat in Boerne City Lake.
Boy Scout J. Barron Cohoon completed his Eagle Scout Project by sinking 25 artificial structures made from plastic buckets and tubing to the bottom of the lake.
“From the design and building of the habitats, I learned a lot about teamwork and good environmental practices,” Cohoon said. “With the help of several other Troop 18 Scouts in building the habitats, I also spent a lot of time researching materials that would create long lasting and ecologically friendly habitats.”
When the time arrived to install the project in the lake, Cohoon worked with the Fire Department dive team to make sure the habitats were properly set at the bottom of Boerne City Lake. The first responders were also able to use the project as a training exercise.
“Our dive team recently received new technology for our boats,” Fire Chief Ray Hacker said. “This was a perfect opportunity for our crews to take full advantage of these improvements and practice in a controlled environment.”
Habitats such as those constructed by Cohoon can protect young fish and attract additional species.
“By constructing and placing the habitats in Boerne City Lake, Cohoon created a place in the community that will enhance the fish resource for a long time to come,” Parks Superintendent Donnie Bergmann said.
Read about other Boy Scout projects that partnered with the City of Boerne.
