Jarod Moyer completes final project toward Eagle Scout

Standing on one of the three bridges he was instrumental in designing, and building, at Tygart Lake State Park, Jarod Moyer (center) is accompanied by his father, Mike Moyer (left), and Tygart Lake State Park Superintendent, Brennon O’Sullivan (right).

GRAFTON – Taylor County will soon have another Eagle Scout to add to its growing list. Following in the footsteps of Dakota Larew, Jarod Moyer of Grafton Boy Scout Troop #6, decided to help improve the trails at Tygart Lake State Park. Larew had just completed his final project last year, when he, and his Troop constructed stairs and platforms on the Tygart Dam Trail.

Tygart Lake State Park is a favorite landmark for Taylor County. It offers boating, good food, and now, thanks to the work of these two dedicated Boy Scouts, people can walk safely on the many trails the park provides.

The trail Moyer chose, starts at the Tygart Lake State Park Office, and goes all the way to the first picnic area. The project he decided to undertake was to build three bridges on the trail, to replace railroad ties at the entrance, and make two other stream crossings safer.

Moyer designed the bridges, and secured the materials through discounts at Lowes, Home Depot, 84 Lumber, and O.C.Cluss Lumber Company to complete the project. The bridges had to be high enough to keep water and debris flowing. The bridges had to be made with pressure treated 2x10s, deck boards, 4x4s and 2x4s. Holding it all together are five inch bolts and galvanized screws and bolts, all making sturdy, lasting structures that will be enjoyed by hikers for years to come.

One of the bridges was placed at the trail head, another at a stream crossing about 100 yards up, and the third, a 20 foot structure, about one half mile up the trail. In all, Moyer, his father Mike Moyer, and members of Boy Scout Troop #6 put in a combined effort of 217 man-hours on these structures. Together, they carried all of the supplies to the bridge sites.

“This has immediately increased the amount of people using the trail,” stated Tygart Lake State Park Superintendent, Brennon O’Sullivan. “It’s almost like a magnet. People had to come see what’s up. There are always cars parked at the trail now. It is definitely seeing more activity.”

O’Sullivan was impressed with the work the scouts accomplished.

“The way the bridges are built prevents little kids from falling into the creek,” O’Sullivan continued. “Not only is it a safe trail, it is a nice trail for hiking.”

With the completion of this project, Moyer has met the requirements needed to achieve his Eagle Scout distinction. Moyer, who will graduate from Grafton High school next year, looks forward to becoming an important asset to his community.

“I just want to thank all of the businesses and people who contributed to the project,” Moyer stated. “Thank you for helping me to accomplish my goal of becoming an Eagle Scout.”