Eagle Scout Project Enhances El Rio Preserve

Published on September 23, 2025

MARANA- The Town of Marana and Eagle Scout Troop 294 recently came together to make El Rio Preserve more welcoming to wildlife and the community.

With the help of fellow Scouts and volunteers, parks and recreation staff installed two new benches, several bird nesting boxes, and planted more than 50 native plant species at the preserve.

Scout Jake Peterson from Troop 294 teamed up with Marana Parks and Recreation Natural Resources Supervisor Jason Grodman to lead the effort to complete the project.

“This project is a shining example of collaboration, blending seamlessly with the Town of Marana’s mission to support native plants and wildlife,” said Natural Resources Supervisor Jason Grodman. “Thanks to Jake’s leadership and the dedication of the volunteers, the preserve is now better equipped to provide vital habitat for birds and other wildlife—and a welcoming space for the community to enjoy for years to come.”

“Eagle Scout projects like this park improvement project, gives our youth a sense of pride, ownership and belonging in their community,” said Marana Parks and Recreation Director Jim Conroy.

The Town of Marana extends its heartfelt thanks to Eagle Scout Troop 294 and all who helped make this possible.