Eagle Scout proposes four bat boxes at Harding Bird Sanctuary; borough approval and Harding Committee signoff requested

An Eagle Scout candidate told the Fair Haven Borough Council on Feb. 11 that he plans to build and install four four-chamber bat boxes at Harding Bird Sanctuary to provide additional habitat for local bats.

The scout, identified in the meeting as Keith (speaker 4), said each box would be about 2 by 2 feet, mounted on wooden posts and painted green to blend with the forest. "They will each box habitats around a 100 bats, so a total habitat for 400 bats," he said, adding that the boxes will be based on U.S. Forest Service templates and the Harding Sanctuary Committee's specifications.

Council members asked about installation methods and signage. Keith said volunteers would provide labor and that he would fundraise to cover all material costs. "So I should need no assistance from the town other than an approval from you guys and an approval from the Harding Committee on exactly, like, the sites they want them," he said.

The council thanked the scout and encouraged him to coordinate with borough staff on any required signs and the Harding Committee on siting. The presentation drew no public opposition, and Council members offered congratulations and logistical guidance.

If the Harding Committee approves specific installation sites, the scout said he hoped to begin digging and installation in mid- to late April, pending ground-thaw conditions.

Council members and staff noted that the project would impose no cost on the borough and that required signage and final site approvals should be coordinated through borough staff.

The council did not take a formal roll-call vote on the project during the meeting; members encouraged follow-up with the Harding Committee and borough administrator to confirm final siting and any permit or signage requirements.