Local Eagle Scout project benefits the community

Gavin’s sister, Gabby, designed the sign that is displayed on the restored brat barn.

Submitted by Scout Master Dave Giebel

Scouts will use the proceeds from the June brat fry to help fund their camping trips.

Photo by Char Stratton, Argus Correspondent

Gavin Giebel invited the community to check out his completed project with a brat fry on June 27. He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 650.

Photo by Char Stratton, Argus Correspondent

Posted Wednesday, July 1, 2026 1:59 pm

By Hayley Sroka, Editor

Gavin Giebel fulfilled his Scout oath, “help other people at all times,” after completing his Eagle Scout project, which can be used by the entire community.
Giebel has been in the Scouting America program since second grade and is entering his freshman year of high school this next school year. Being a scout has taught him a variety of new skills, and he enjoys having the opportunity to try new things. He is still working on earning the necessary badges to earn his Eagle Scout rank, but he has completed the required skills. Currently, he is working to complete his communications, stamp collecting, pioneering, metalwork, and citizenship in society.
The Eagle Scout rank is the highest level of achievement within the Scouts program. To be eligible for the ranking, scouts must have been active Life Scouts for at least six months, have earned a minimum of 21 merit badges, hold positions of leadership within their troop, and complete a significant community service project. Giebel was ready to give back to the community and identified a need to restore the community’s brat barn.
Giebel approached Wautoma Police Chief Paul Mott with the possibility of restoring the StoneRidge Brat Barn for community use. His project brought necessary structural improvements to enhance functionality, ensuring it can be used for years to come.
The project was completely led by Giebel, who received assistance from his fellow scouts, friends, and family. The funds and equipment needed for the project were collected by Giebel, and with his hard work, the community will now be able to utilize the brat barn to help fundraise for various programs.

The barn is located between the Wautoma Public Library and the WWII Building. Giebel unveiled the refurbished barn on June 27, officially marking the completion of the project. The barn is a valuable asset to the community fundraisers and will now be a staple of the downtown community.
In the meantime, Giebel recommends that local youth join Scouting! The Scouts have taught him valuable lessons he will carry with him throughout his life and helped him create countless memories with his friends.