Life Scout John Bednarek Builds Farm Structure

Boy Scout Troop 70 have several Scouts who have or will achieve Eagle Scout rank. Cinnaminson Patch has asked them to share their stories and photos with us. 

Scout: John Bednarek

Current Scout Rank: Life Scout

School: Cinnaminson High School

Grade: 12

Project: My Eagle Scout project was to build a replacement structure for the goats at Paws Farm in Mount Laurel.

I used to go to Paws Farm when I was a little kid. I went there for birthday parties and school trips. When I was thinking about potential projects for my Eagle project, I heard that the farm was looking for help from Scouts, so I called and made an appointment to speak with them. There were a few projects they needed completed, but this one really interested me.

I had no experience in building things and thought this would be a great way to learn something new and help Paws Farm, a local non-profit educational and nature center. 

When I met with the staff at Paws Farm and Mount Laurel, they requested that I take down the existing structure as well as build a new building for their goats. The existing structure had leaks in the roof and the flooring was falling apart. I agreed to help them.

I did some research online and found a 12’ X 9’ shed kit at a local home store that was the perfect size. Using a kit also reduced the number of tools I would need on hand as well as the need to operate power tools, which scouts under 18 are not allowed. My plan incorporated the building of the floor and walls at my house and then transporting these assembled pieces to the farm for final assembly. This was a great deal of work. I was fortunate to get help from my troop, family and friends.  It took over 200 hours to complete, but it was very satisfying. I not only learned how to assemble and roof a building using a variety of tools, but I also learned how to manage a large project and keep things moving.

On Sept. 29, I finished my project. Paws Farm and Mount Laurel are very happy with the new building and so are the goats.