Friends and fellow scouts help Scott Elmore with his Eagle project, including, from left, Jayden Hill, Robert Foglesong, David Foglesong, Preston Oden, Elmore, Collin Nelson, Sam Cohen and Jackson Morrison. Toni Milbourne

SHENANDOAH JUNCTION — Scott Elmore, a senior at Jefferson High School, is completing an Eagle Scout project as a culmination of his more than six years of scouting.

A member of Troop 141, Elmore is working to upgrade the BB gun shooting range at Fellowship Bible Church in Shenandoah Junction. Elmore, who lives in Kearneysville, attends church at FBC and, after approaching his youth pastor for ideas, began the upgrade plans.

“Scott and I spoke and discussed some ideas for projects around the church property,” said Mark Henson, FBC youth pastor. “The thing that clicked was to upgrade the BB gun range.”

Prior to beginning the actual physical work on the project, Elmore explained he had to write a proposal for the project to submit for approval to his council. All Eagle Scout projects must be approved before they begin as the Scout offers details of the project to ensure it aligns with guidelines stipulated by the Boy Scouts of America. Once approved, the Scout may then move ahead with the project.

Elmore, in addition to building two new picnic tables to replace one in disrepair, also worked to build a 16-foot target wall where various types of targets can be placed as youngsters learn to shoot. The backdrop incorporates shelves for things such as cans as well as allowing for paper targets. Upon final completion, the backdrop will be anchored to ensure stability.

“The project, in total, takes about 80-100 man-hours,” Elmore said.

Scouts working on their projects may receive assistance from others and Elmore had several fellow scouts on hand to help build and stain parts of the construction projects. Several of the helpers were members of Troop 141, while some were friends who are or have been members of other troops.

When completed, the BB gun range will be used during various activities at the church.

“We use the BB gun range during our Pioneer Camp,” Henson said, mentioning campers learn to shoot as one of the classes at camp.

Upon completion of his project, Elmore will provide all documentation, including photographs, to the Boy Scout Council prior to receiving the top honor of Eagle Scout.