A young Scout will see their silver award project in environmental action at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge next month, with a project that consists of rain barrels decorated with animals and New Jersey scenes.
Cas Hetzel is a member of Troop 20117 who was inspired to focus their project on water conservation after a spring break trip to the Grand Canyon, where they noticed drought was scarce. Hetzel had a similar reaction during a visit to the Hoover Dam.
With that in mind, they reached out to the Medford wildlife refuge, whose mission is to serve as a community resource on the importance of protecting and enhancing ecosystems. The center offers Scouts opportunities to participate in projects that can fulfill their troop requirement, including building animal enclosures and fences.
Hetzel decided to focus their project on dressing up new rain barrels to replace aged ones. As an artist, they then painted the barrels with images like a New Jersey lighthouse, an owl and butterflies.
“I feel good knowing I’m helping someone or multiple people in the case of Cedar Run,” they said. “I hope the barrels are a helpful addition to the staff and people who enjoy Cedar Run, and that the artwork helps make someone feel happy.”
In addition to the images on them, the rain barrels will continue to make a sustainable difference at the refuge, something that aligns with the requirements of a Scout silver award. The refuge’s Assistant Director of Education Rachel Ndeto noted that Cedar Run is almost entirely funded by donations, admissions and some grants.
“Having someone who’s willing to do a project to improve Cedar Run improves the grounds, improves the lives of the animals,” Ndeto explained. “Anything like that actually really helps us out a lot.”
Hetzel noted that the materials used to create the barrels are good for years to come because parts of them are replaceable if damaged and easy to clean.
“I also hope to make a pamphlet for Cedar Run, so that anyone else interested in water conservation can learn to make a rain barrel for themselves,” Hetzel noted.
Hetzel’s mother, Corlynn Hullfish, is proud that her child found a way to give back to the local community and environment.
“We have been taking our kids to Cedar Run for as long as I can remember, and I have always enjoyed seeing the Scout projects and the lasting impact they have,” Hullfish said. “I hope that the project that Cas is completing will encourage others to look around their community to see how they can help.”
For more information, visit cedarrun.org
