For many Scouts, earning the rank of Eagle Scout is the ultimate goal — a milestone that represents years of dedication, learning, and leadership. For senior Scout Matthew Teeples, that goal is finally within reach. His Eagle Scout project, which focuses on improving Wolf Run Park in Knox County, combines environmental service, community benefit, and personal growth.
But what exactly is an Eagle Scout project?
“It’s considered a really big service project that involves planning and approval from the council,” Teeples explained. “A major part is that the project is trying to teach us leadership skills. Other people are involved, and I would tell them what to do as the leader.”
Teeples’ project involves building and installing nine benches made from recycled plastic and mild steel at a new section of Wolf Run Park. In addition to the benches, he plans to do trail work and brush cleanup in the surrounding areas.
“I want people to have a place to relax and step back from life to take a moment,” he said. “Once I get the benches in, Wolf Run Park would be a great place to do so.”
His main goal is to give visitors a peaceful spot to rest, picnic, or simply enjoy nature. The project’s benefactor, Mr. David Heighaus, Director of the Knox County Park District, will help guide the process.
Originally, Teeples wanted to do his project in Gambier, where his dad works at Kenyon College. But fate — and good timing — brought him to Knox County’s new park development instead.
“The people from the Knox County Environmental Department got back to me first,” Teeples said. “They offered me a spot where I could do my project in Wolf Run Park.”
Right now, V is in the proposal phase of his project. He’s nearly finished with his planning but still needs cost estimates and signatures before he can begin construction.
“There’s a lot that goes into just getting the project ready to start,” he said. “I have to get it approved by my Scout Leader, gather the materials, and have a solid plan.”
His goal is to finish by summer 2026. “I would like to have the project done by next summer,” he added hopefully.
Teeples has been in Boy Scouts for about ten years — practically a lifetime for a high school student. When asked why he’s stayed in the program so long, his answer was simple: he loves it.
For Teeples, Scouts isn’t just about earning badges — it’s about learning life skills. “It introduces you to things that school and regular life wouldn’t,” he explained. “Like how to start a fire with flint and steel, set up a tent with just a tarp and ropes, or tie over twenty knots behind your back. Scouts teaches you about the real world.”
While the project is his to lead, Matthew knows he won’t be doing it alone. “Anyone can help. It’s just a matter of if I can get a hold of them,” he said. He even mentioned that if welding is needed, his welding class might get involved. “It’s not a specific group of people that is given; anyone can help.”
Earning the Eagle rank is no small feat. It’s the highest honor in Boy Scouts, achieved by only a small percentage of Scouts nationwide.
“To me, it means a lot to have people see my progress,” Teeples said. “I would have something to show for my success, instead of just having it given to me. I want to proudly say, ‘I did this. I worked for this.’”
With his benches soon to be built and trails soon to be cleared, Matthew’s Eagle Project isn’t just about improving a park — it’s about creating something lasting for his community and himself.
