By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Paris, Tenn.–Another great Eagle Scout project is in the works in Henry County. For this one, Troop 22 Scout Preston Pooler is constructing a new greenhouse at Lakewood School that will be utilized by the school Future Farmers of America as an educational tool.
Beginning work in late November, the project is almost complete. His father, Scoutmaster Jason Pooler, said, “He will has the gas line and electric work to do and we’re going to wait until better weather to get that done. Hopefully, it will all be complete in 30 days.”
Henry County Schools Director Dr. Leah Watkins said, “Preston is an amazing young man and this is an amazing project. We’re really excited that he embraced it. It will leave a legacy for Lakewood and its students for years to come.
Dr. Watkins said the greenhouse will be utilized for educational and agricultural programs.
Preston’s crew has consisted of other Scouts and parents who have helped over five weekends to build the greenhouse.
Preston thanked everyone who has been helping work on the project. After last weekend, he said, “I would have to say this was one of our most productive weekends and had a lot of help! Only a few more steps!”
His father noted that the project belonged to Preston “from start to finish. It was his idea, he studied it, he watched Youtube videos to learn what he needed to do. It was his project all the way.”
Preston also made presentations to several Henry County businesses to acquire donations and has been keeping a record of the entire project, including photos, to present for his Eagle Scout certification. The project has cost $11,000 in donated materials and free labor from the Scout troop.
This isn’t the Pooler family’s first big project, however, since Preston’s brother Jacob earlier constructed the T-Ball field at McNeill Park. Jason Pooler noted that Troop 22 has performed many such projects, including building wheelchair ramps for residences. “I’d say we’re one of the biggest builders of wheelchair ramps for people. We’ve done over 30,” he said.
Once completed, a plaque will be placed at the greenhouse thanking everyone for the donations and help and a ceremony will be conducted.
Photos courtesy of Preston Pooler.