Viroqua Boy Scout completes service project

A Viroqua Boy Scout recently completed his Eagle Scout service project constructing two decks along the shore at Jersey Valley Park.

Derek Johnson, 14, an incoming freshman at Viroqua High School, worked with mentors to design and build two decks that are adjacent to a paved walkway along the western shore of Jersey Valley Lake.

Johnson began planning the project in October of 2013 and received approval from the Vernon County Land and Water Conservation Department to proceed with the project in January of 2014. Construction began on May 31 and the decks were complete on June 12.

Im grateful to Vernon County and everyone who supported me in my project, Johnson said. Im thankful to those who volunteered their time to help build the decks.

Johnsons project used money from a state of Wisconsin matching grant to Vernon County to help improve recreation at the park. The total cost of material for the project was $2,499.10. Nuzum Building Supply of Viroqua donated more than $400 to the project.

Johnson gave his final project report to the Vernon County Land And Water Conservation Committee, last Thursday. Committee chairman Will Beitlich said the county was thankful for the project and what it adds to Jersey Valley Park.

Johnsons mentors for the project were Vernon County Parks Administrator Rod Engh and his uncle Tom Mullikin of Wauzeka.

Johnson said a total of 308 volunteer hours were donated to the project by 19 different Scouts, adult Scout leaders, family, friends or community members.

Johnson has been a Scout since becoming a Tiger Cub Scout in 2005. He received his Arrow of Light, the highest award in Cub Scouts, from Pack 9, Viroqua, in 2011. He attended the Boy Scouts of America National Jamboree at the Bechtel Summit Reserve, W. Va., in the summer of 2013. He has served as Troop Historian, Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader and is currently the Order of the Arrow Troop Representative for Troop 75.

Johnsons future plans are to join the military and/or study police science to become a law enforcement officer.

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Viroqua Boy Scout completes service project