submitted by David Shott, Troop 171
Over 15 years ago, a scout with Troop 171 initially built a neighborhood Disc Golf Course in Block House Creek as his Eagle Scout project. However, as the community grew, the disc golf course became an issue due to its location near houses. In 2020 a professional Disc golf course designer was brought in and, a relocation plan was made for the course. The neighborhood engaged Troop 171 for help in creating the new disc golf course. This activity involved one troop level project, two eagle scout projects, and assisting on the grand opening day.
The Troop was engaged to clear rocks and vines along the course. On Saturday, August 21, and Sunday, August 22, approximately 15 scouts removed rocks that would cause a trip or fall hazard on the course. The Troop also moved any remaining vegetation that was blocking the course.
On Saturday, August 28, Gavin W. completed his eagle scout project. The first step was relocating a trial that was going through the new course. Additionally, he built a wall to stop discs from hole three from going on to the trail. His wall consisted of taking spars and weaving them through existing trees and then adding vines. This weaving created a natural wall that pleased the neighborhood so much they replicated the design in other areas on the course.
On Saturday, September 18, Forester S. completed his eagle scout project on the course. Hole nine has a wet weather creek through the hole. The elevation changes on the creek required erosion control and a safe way for players to go up and down. Forster added stone and timber steps in two locations along the creek to give a clear path for the golfers to walk. These steps will also control the erosion along the creek.
On Saturday, October 2, the troop came together to assist the Blockhouse Creek MUD in the grand opening of the new disc golf course. Ten scouts came out to help the grand opening. They installed the baskets, set up the events, ran a putting competition, and cleaned up garbage after the event. The highlight for the neighborhood was the scouts of Troop 171 performing a flag ceremony to start the event.
The Scouts’ participation caught the attention of the of course designer John Houck. John was excited to see what the boys had done with his design. Everyone from the neighborhood was as impressed by what was accomplished. Even though the course was moved from its original location fifteen years ago, and a complete redesign had happened, the original baskets from the first eagle project were able to be reused. It is great to see this legacy of scouting continue in Troop 171.
