James Inscoe achieved the rare Eagle Scout designation in June and to achieve that distinction, all Eagle Scout candidates take on a project that leaves an area better than they found it. Inscoe’s Eagle project involved installing a new map at the LJCC trailhead plus other wayfaring signs along The J’s extensive network of trails. A rising senior at Mountain Brook High School, James is hoping to study forestry in college. Communications Manager David Gonnerman asked James about his involvement
LJCC: How did this particular project here at The J come about?
JI: As a mountain biker, the LJCC provides the most convenient trails to use in our community. I am on the Mountain Brook Cycling Team and when my teammates and I practice here, navigating the trails can get confusing. The old trail map had faded and I thought a new one in addition to trail signage would make it easier to understand the trail system. So I worked with The J to create a plan to improve these trails and make them more enjoyable for others.
What was the most challenging aspect of the project?
The planning phase to make sure we got the signage correct and user friendly, in addition to getting the construction and roofing plans correct. Once onsite, the toughest part was leveling the foundation and digging out the base and installing layers of rock, gravel, and sand to allow for proper drainage and retention of the mulch. I had a lot of help from other Scouts and friends, which made it a lot easier!
Did you always know you wanted to be an Eagle Scout?
That’s always been my goal. While my family has a long history in Scouting, I am proud to be the first Eagle Scout in my family, which made me want to earn this rank even more.
Attaining Eagle Scout status comes only after earning a variety of merit badges. What were your biggest challenges along the way?
You have to earn 21 total Merit Badges to be an Eagle Scout and 14 must be from the required list. The biggest challenge for me was going through part of my Scouting experience during the pandemic, which of course changed how we worked together as a troop.
