Nicholas Fezenko, Troop 156, Debuts Eagle Scout Project
Jason Karamanol, an 11th Hour volunteer and Fezenko at the Memorial Garden
Nicholas Fezenko is Mount Olive’s newest Eagle Scout as he recently completed his Eagle project at Turkey Brook Park. “Recently the 11th hour has opened a new location here in Mount Olive. This new location is one of their biggest locations being right by Turkey Brook Park. For my Eagle Scout Project, I decided to give back to an organization that gives so much to our community,” Fezenko shared
The project included creating a garden with multiple benches, planting various plants, and cleaning up the area. The end goal was to make this area a place where potential pet owners can meet their future furry friends. The garden was also made into a memorial for 11th-hour founder Linda Schiller who passed away from cancer.
Fezenko discussed how the project came about. “When I first started I needed to get a lay of the land, with getting the needed measurements of the area where the project was taking place. Using 2 boulders and the base of the pine tree as points, I created a triangular area that was 30 ft on each side. These measurements allowed me to make sure I was able to create a diagram of my vision and obtain the right amount of materials, such as the amount of mulch I would need and how many paver bases were needed.”
Fezenko’s first step was the removal process, cleaning out the interior. The area needed to be open, free from obstructions, and organized. There were also various types of weeds that needed to be removed. He created a 3in trench around the whole area, to clearly mark where the weed blocker was to be put. Before the mulching could start, he needed to put the pavers stones down, creating a walkway in the garden which staff and visitors can use. After this was concluded, he laid down mulch throughout the area making sure to evenly cover the whole area. With the mulching and the weed blocker being completed, he moved onto the planting. “I made sure to include multiple types of plants to give the area color and make it stand out, but I also had to ensure that all the plants I included were dog and cat friendly,” Fezenko says.
The last step of the process was assembling two commercial grade benches, which will be the centerpiece of the area. Once this step was completed, the project came to a close and the 11th hour rescue had their new outdoor space.
“I would also like to thank Plant Detective in Chester, Kirk Allen trucking, Lowe's in Flanders and My Troop 156 of Flanders,” Fezenko says.
Visitors can see the project at Turkey Brook Park. All are encouraged to visit.
