New benches now grace the recently created Wilton River Walk Trail, thanks to 17-year-old Thadyn Conner’s Eagle Scout project.
Four modified Leopold-style benches have been placed along the quiet half-mile trail, which starts at the southern end of the Wilton park/campground area and meanders along the west bank of the Kickapoo, going around the Martin Warehousing building and eventually connecting with Highway 71/131.
Conner and other members of Troop 5 of Tomah gathered Oct. 30 to build the benches out of pressure-treated lumber. One component of an Eagle Scout project is to foster leadership skills; thus, Conner led his troop members in the assembling process.
Noting that many of his fellow Troop 5 members had done enhancement projects for Tomah, Conner said he had been inspired to create something for Wilton. Overall, he found the project an “enjoyable experience.”
Conner is the son of Ryan and Rachel Conner of rural Wilton.
Tim Welch, president of the Wilton Village Board and a member of the trail committee, said, “The village can’t thank Thadyn and his troop enough for the gift of the four benches for the river walk. They are high quality, well constructed, and strategically placed to allow trail users to fully appreciate the scenic beauty the trail has to offer. Thadyn is just another example of those in the community who have given of their time, talents, and equipment to make this trail a reality. These include the Martin family for the easement, Zellmer Excavating for donated bulldozer work, Sid’s Concrete for their skidsteer, Morry Paeth, who donated our lawnmower, and Chief Likely and Steve Laufenberg for their work in preparing the path, and more. We are most grateful.”
Gina Rae, also a member of the trail committee, added, “This trail is maintained and funded by volunteers. Thadyn’s project is a wonderful complement to the natural beauty of the trail. His work and that of his troop and family are very much appreciated. I think the benches will be a wonderful place to sit and adjust my snowshoes!”