By Matthew Weinberger

Anyone traversing Thompson Creek Trail this past week may have noticed something new, thanks to one industrious Claremont High School junior from Boy Scout Troop 407.

Jacob Watson, a fourth generation Claremonter, wanted to find a meaningful way to give back when considering what he might do for his Eagle Scout project. A regular on the Thompson Creek Trail his whole life, he landed on refurbishing the ½ mile stretch of trail between Mills Avenue and Pomello Drive.

(L-R) Levi Novoa, Lyle Mideiros, Jacob Watson, Terrence Becker, and Aiden Wesson helped Jacob complete his Eagle Scout Project at Thompson Creek Trail. Courier photo/Matthew Weinberger

With guidance from park ranger Larry Moss, he and members of his troop set about removing the existing railing and posts, digging and setting new posts and railing at each side trail entrance and at the top of the trail, and refurbishing and painting two existing mile markers.

“It took roughly 30-plus hours of planning and preparation,” Jacob said. “During the project I had over 30 volunteers from my Troop 407, CHS Swim Team, CHS Interact Club, and Claremont Rotary. It took me and my volunteers six days of work and included over 130-plus man hours during the project.”

Asked what he took away from the project, Jacob said: “I learned how important support systems are. I was lucky to have so much support from my troop, school, the City of Claremont, the Rotary, and my family. Without that support I wouldn’t have been able to complete the project. My hope is that when people walk on the trail they see that the trail is well maintained and that they enjoy the open, natural space our community provides.”

Jacob Watson, foreground, and Lyle Mideiros at work along Thompson Creek Trail. Courier photo/Matthew Weinberger

Lyle Mideiros (front) and Jacob Watson get to work one recent morning along Thompson Creek Trail. Courier photo/Matthew Weinberger