Robert Fox, of Jupiter, is only 13 but he's already a candidate for the coveted rank of Eagle Scout - the highest honor in scouting.

On Saturday, March 15, the student at Bak Middle School of the Arts completed his Eagle Scout project by planting native, wetland trees on Torry Island, near Belle Glade. The 700-acre tract of abandoned farmland is located at the southern end of Lake Okeechobee. Robert assisted about 60 volunteers, including numerous Boy Scouts, in an effort to plant pond apple and cypress trees on the island.

The planting effort was organized by the non-profit Arthur R. Marshall Foundation, a West Palm Beach-based group dedicated to preserving the Florida Everglades. The project is part of a joint endeavor between the Foundation and the City of Belle Glade to turn Torry Island into an eco-tourism destination.

"Last year, while participating in the Marshall Foundation projects, I was inspired to continue working with them for my Eagle project. I enjoy being a part of the Foundation's efforts to improve wetland environments, and, because of that inspiration, I am considering working for the environment as my life's work," said Robert, who is a member of Jupiter Boy Scout Troop 173.

Marshall Foundation President John Marshall said he was happy that Robert chose to plant trees for his Eagle Scout project.

"It's wonderful to see young people working to improve South Florida's environmental future. The wetland that Robert is helping to create will clean water and provide wildlife habitat for generations, making this a meaningful and lasting Eagle Scout project," he said.

In addition to planting trees, the scouts spent time weeding and maintaining some of the thousands of young trees already on the island.

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