Mosquitoes have always been a problem in the Hampton area, more recently due to a budget cut in the Mosquito Control Commission. David’s project helps to address the mosquito problem by constructing more dwellings for mosquito-eating Tree Swallows. Using more than 1,300 linear feet of lumber and 245 service hours, David and his volunteers created 118 swallow- type birdhouses and placed them in the major marsh areas of Hampton.

David logged more than 90 hours on his own to finish this service project, which must demonstrate leadership and benefit the community. Only two percent of all Boy Scouts achieve this highest rank.

The goal of the project is to bring in more mosquito-eating swallows to lower the mosquito population in the area using natural methods. The effect that the project has on the community will not be fully complete until springtime, when the swallows return from the south and take up residence in the newly constructed birdhouses.

Another part of this project is conveying information to the community about how to prevent mosquitoes from proliferating on their property. David does this through a section of the Troop 177 Web page, www.bsatroop177.org, which is dedicated solely to this Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project.

David expresses thanks to all who volunteered or participated in this project, including Ann Kaiser, Chairman, and David Weber of the Hampton Mosquito Control Commission for their extensive knowledge and guidance on his project; and the support and generous donations of the Hampton Rotary Club, Rand Lumber of Rye, Home Depot (North Hampton), and Hampton Center Hardware.