After several meetings with Mayor Short, local resident William Pakbaz decided that his Eagle Scout project would involve planting native plants to secure the shoreline between the popular Anna Maria City Pier and the inlet on Anna Maria Island.
Sixteen-year-old Pakbaz has been a scout since he arrived in Florida in 2015. Now, ten years later, he is on the verge of becoming an Eagle Scout. The Eagle Scout rank is the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts of America and symbolizes excellence, leadership, and achievement.
Pakbaz first met with Mayor Short, who is also an Eagle Scout, in March. The two of them developed a timeline to restore the area, as Pakbaz wanted to give back to his community after the devastation caused by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. He felt this project would be a perfect opportunity for him to contribute.
“The local mayors have done an amazing job of rebuilding the cities on the island, and I wanted to help too because it has been so hard for so many residents,” Pakbaz shared.
Pakbaz organized fifteen volunteers on May 30th to help him execute his plan. Members of his troop, including his unit leader Mr. Travis McLeod and patrol leader Jackson McLeod, were also present to support him. Together they planted over 160 plants including Sea Grapes, Silver Palmettos, Dune Sunflowers, Coonties, Muhly Grass, Blanket Flower and Sea Oats.
Pakbaz’s Eagle project reflects his passion for the environment and native species. He has volunteered at Wildlife Inc., planted sea oats on the beach, and restored ponds in Manatee County Parks. He is grateful for the opportunity to make a difference on the island.
“I want to thank Mayor Short and the Anna Maria City Commisson for trusting me with this project, and my friends and family for helping me today.
Article by Jackson Pakbaz