Eagle Scout Alex Derrickson stands by an interpretive sign. - FWS photo

Alex Derrickson, from Genoa, Wisconsin, and De Soto/Wheatland Troop 31, earned the rank of Eagle Scout this summer, while assisting the Genoa NFH in its outreach program.

Derrickson was awarded his Eagle at a ceremony held at the Wheatland Community Center on Saturday, August 5.  He fulfilled the community service requirements of his Eagle Scout badge last summer by helping design and complete an interpretive walking trail at the Genoa National Fish Hatchery. 

A service project is among the requirements for obtaining the prestigious Eagle rank, and Derrickson teamed with the hatchery to make an interpretive walking trail that describes ongoing conservation efforts at the station. 

The trail encompasses one mile of gravel roads that encircle the hatchery grounds, and includes 16 interpretive signs and bases.  A trail map was also prepared to guide visitors along their way.

The walking trail should serve the community and hatchery visitors for years to come.    Jenny Walker, SCEP student, and the hatchery maintenance crew of Dan Kumlin and Jeff Lockington, were instrumental in helping Derrickson along the way.  

Derrickson is a 2006 graduate of De Soto high school, and will be attending the Wisconsin Technical Community College in LaCrosse, studying computer electrical technology.