Logan, a senior at Newsome High School and an Eagle Scout, is proving that one individual can make a meaningful impact on our environment—starting right here in Hillsborough County.

With a deep-rooted passion for conservation, Logan chose to focus his Eagle Scout service project on protecting the gopher tortoise, a keystone species native to Florida. These tortoises play a vital role in the ecosystem, creating burrows that provide shelter for hundreds of other species. Yet, despite their importance, gopher tortoises remain endangered and federally protected.

Logan’s project centered around raising awareness at Lithia Springs Conservation Park, where he spends much of his time hiking and connecting with nature. He installed several educational signs throughout the park to inform visitors about the gopher tortoise, their significance in the ecosystem, and best practices for protecting them.

“I’ve always had a passion for environmental awareness,” Logan said. “We don’t do enough to make sure all species are viewed as valuable.”

The new signage encourages parkgoers to appreciate gopher tortoises from a distance, avoid disturbing their burrows, and never place them in water—since, unlike turtles, gopher tortoises cannot swim.

Oscar Gomes, Park Supervisor at Lithia Springs, praised the project:

“We are super appreciative of these signs and look forward to using them as tools to educate the community around us.”

Logan’s effort is a great example of the power of Scouting to shape youth into leaders who care deeply about their communities and the world around them. His hope? That these signs will help others recognize the value of the gopher tortoise and take action to protect Florida’s wildlife for generations to come.

“There’s still enough human activity for people to be aware of their presence—and able to help,” Logan added.

While Logan may not be able to save every gopher tortoise, his Eagle Scout project is a powerful step in the right direction—one that will benefit wildlife and educate visitors for years to come.

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🦅 Inspired by Logan’s project? Learn more about Scouting at tampabayscouting.org.