Benjamin Johnston from Bergen Troop 31 earned the Eagle Scout award and was recognized at a ceremony in Batavia on January 11. As part of the requirements to obtain the Eagle Scout rank, Johnston had to complete an Eagle Scout project, earn numerous merit badges, and serve in leadership positions within the Boy Scout organization. His Eagle project consisted of constructing a 30 foot long footbridge in the Bergen Swamp. The completed bridge is located on the Babette-Brown-Coleman loop of the Hessenthaler Trail in the swamp. Because of the swap's unique and treasured environment, the project required careful selection of materials and procedures to minimize adverse impact on the rare ecosystem. This project also required Johnston to recruit volunteers to assist him with this carefully planned construction. The Byron-Bergen High School student is in the top 10 percent of his class and has been a member of Senior National Honor Society, Scholastic Bowl, Science Olympiad, Singing Silhouettes, and Student Council. He is also very active in his church. He is the son of Robert Johnston and Mr. and Mrs. Steven Clay. Robert Nelson is the scoutmaster for Troop 31 and Bergen Methodist Church is the sponsoring organization. Provided photo. February 11, 2007 |
