By Georgia Thelen
Review Staff Writer
Sam Abbott has been a Boy Scout for 10 years and has dreamed about completing his Eagle Scout project since day one.
“I want to be an Eagle Scout because it has been my goal since first grade,” said Abbott.
Abbott has decided that the Bald Mountain State Recreational Area will be the location for his final project because of its high popularity in the community. Abbott’s own family and friends use the area quite frequently for many outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, hunting and dog walking.
The park ranger at Bald Mountain has recently reported receiving a higher volume of calls from hikers who have taken a path that appeared to be a trail, but ended up lost.
Sam is hoping to raise enough money to build lasting barricades that will prevent hikers from going down these mystery trails off the main trail system. He is looking to build six barricades that will be permanently fixed.
“I chose Bald Mountain Recreation Area because I wanted to make sure that my Eagle project had a long lasting purpose. I didn’t want to make a project that would fade after a couple years,” said Abbott, a Lake Orion Resident.
Abbott would also like to install two ADA compliant composite benches that would be placed at trailheads to provide rest stops for Bald Mountain visitors.
Abbott is looking to raise a total of $1,700 by the end of October to fund project materials and lunch for volunteers.
Abbott knew there would be a long road ahead full of hard work, but also knew it would be worth it in the end.
To donate to Sam Abbott’s Eagle Scout efforts to improve and beautify this natural area, visit GoFundMe.com/2f9frey8. Bald Mountain is located at 3361 S. Lapeer Rd in Orion Township.