MADISON – To fulfill service requirements for the Eagle rank, Tyler Gohlich worked to improve a nature area adjacent to Madison that many people have never visited.

“For my Eagle project, I worked with Ranger Daphne Moland at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge to restore a nature trail. I also created an online quiz that corresponds with wooden markers along the trail to identify trees native to Alabama,” Gohlich said.

To complete his project work, Gohlich used concrete and weather-treated wood to build and place a bench. He also positioned markers along the trail that correspond to specific trees.

“I was motivated to finish the Eagle Scout requirements by my father and grandfather, who were also Eagle Scouts,” Gohlich said. “They both played a big role in helping me complete my project, as well.”

A senior at James Clemens High School, 16-year-old Gohlich has participated in Scouts since kindergarten. “I enjoy being in Scouts because of the opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. I have learned to make many types of shelter in unique situations, handle tools safely, start a fire with many different tools and enjoy wildlife responsibly,” he said.

At James Clemens, Gohlich is a member of the cross country and track teams. “I also participate in a few clubs, including First Priority and National Honor Society,” he said.

His parents are David and Heather Gohlich. David works as an Operations Research Analyst with MITRE.

Eagle Scout is the highest achievement or rank possible in Boy Scouts of America or BSA. The title of ‘Eagle Scout’ was established in the early 1900s. Only four percent of Boy Scouts members qualify to have the Eagle rank because of the required service work and a lengthy review process by Scout elders.