LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — An Allen County Children's Garden exhibit is receiving a long-needed upgrade thanks to a local Scout working toward the highest rank in Scouting.
Clyde Allen, a member of Troop 106 in Shawnee, learned that the garden's "Grandma's Garden" exhibit needed a new fence and volunteered to lead the project as part of his Eagle Scout service requirement. The wooden picket fence surrounding the exhibit has stood for several decades but has fallen into disrepair. Allen designed a replacement vinyl fence, gathered volunteers, secured donations and began construction. Allen said the new fence will require less maintenance while providing a safer and more durable space for children visiting the garden.
"We're putting together a new vinyl fence so like they don't have to paint it anymore, make it more easier for them and for the kids so they don't, it's not like it's going to break on the wood. They said like they're known to like break the gate and everything on it and they got to keep repairing it but they should be sturdy enough to where they can have some little wear and tear and be all right."
Allen said the project has taught him more than basic construction skills. He has also learned how to adapt and solve problems as challenges arise during the building process. He hopes to complete the fence within the next several weeks.
