When Scoutmasters take an interest, Eagle Scout candidates who choose to do footbridges (that appear to be usable by horses) are rendering a major public service — they connect the Scouts to the land and the public to the land, and they offer a major alternative to the County trails that are far removed from the water views that come with stream trails.
Park Authorities do not have the manpower, budget, or interest to do stream trail maintenance and new construction. At the same time, because these are public lands, construction is forbidden unless the Park Authority approves the Eagle Project. Under the leadership of Chairman Sharon Buluva, a process has been established for Fairfax County that could be a model for other counties. Hats off in particular to the County insurance manager, who certified the projects as “covered” if approved. The process includes a laminated “stake notice” at the site for 30 days.
Eight formal lessons shared with a recent Eagle Advisor: