Jacob Mann's Eagle Scout project nears completion

Jacob Mann will soon earn his Eagle Scout rank. He is shown completing his project, in conjunction with the River Raisin Watershed Council, emergency markers along the Manchester portion of the River Raisin. These markers are paired with coordinate points and addresses in case Emergency Medical Services need to access an emergency event on the river. Photo courtesy of Jacob Mann.

Jacob Mann, an Eagle Scout Candidate in Manchester's Troop 426, is working on achieving his rank in August and has spent the last several months planning, preparing, and completing a project that will benefit his community.

"For this requirement, I have chosen to partner with the River Raisin Watershed Council and continue their emergency marker plans along the Manchester portion of the River Raisin," Jacob said. "The markers are paired with coordinate points and addresses in case Emergency Medical Services need to access an emergency event on the river."

Jacob, along with a crew of helpers and supporters, completed the installation of these signs on July 11.

"For property owners, these signs — and their installation — may be seen from their property, but will be in the riparian area within the floodplain, visible to canoers and kayakers," he explains. "These signs will be strategically placed on the floodplain banks of the river — with regards to the Michigan Historical Riparian Rights — stretching from Fellows Bridge to the Main Street Bridge."

This section of the river is also the route of the Annual Manchester Canoe Race. Addresses will not be shared with the public, and will only be shared to the Manchester Township Fire Department.

"For river travelers, please know that at NO point is it legal to travel on private property, unless given permission from the property owner," Jacob adds. "These signs are meant to give river-goers a specific location in case they need to contact emergency services. Travelers should ALWAYS carry a communication device in order to contact emergency services in case an emergency event occurs on the river."

Although Jacob is obviously excited to receive Scouting's highest award, he says he is most excited to be serving his community. And he has a message for the community that he serves:

Jacob's crew of helpers installing one of the river markers between Fellows Bridge and Main Street. Photo courtesy of Jacob Mann.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.