| The first major undertaking of the Camp Eastman Development Association was the expansion and improvement of the boat docks area. Recognizing the opportunity to promote Camp Eastman’s location on the Mississippi river, the CEDA Board of Directors voted to begin a project that would enable the camp to offer a waterfront program of the highest quality. |
Planning for the project began in 1997 with the study of plans for a new 30' x 40' all steel boathouse and collection of construction estimates. The steel fabrication order was completed in late August, and September 13th was set as the date to begin groundwork. In conjunction with the Silver Tomahawk Lodge Fall Conclave, the first steps were taken to prepare the site for a new building. Cutting of trees and removal of stumps were the first items to be accomplished.
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With good fall weather, the grading was completed and the concrete forms were set in place. Following the pouring of the floor, the structural steel, walls and roof were installed as quickly as the volunteer crews could be assembled and the weather would permit. The installation of the overhead door was completed on December 13th. The Scouts and leaders of Troop #3 - Burlington then tackled the project of moving the boats and equipment into the new building.Throughout 1998 projects continued to provide telephone, electrical service and wiring for the building. Interior building projects also included building storage racks for life jackets, oars, paddles, sailboats and sails. |
| The construction of a new observation tower and buddy board insured that the waterfront program could continue to operate within the safety guidelines of the Boy Scouts of America. |
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CEDA Board of Directors member Dean Anderson designed and oversaw the construction of new, removable boat docks. To make the area more functional for boating classes, additional picnic tables were constructed and sand added to the boat access ramp. |
| In order to increase the variety of activities available in the waterfront program, the Camp Eastman Development Association obtained a catamaran sailboat, a ski boat and motor, and two kayaks. |
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Salvage and cleanup of the old boathouse was another major project to improve the appearance of the area. Brush clearing, stump removal, additional grading to control drainage, landscaping and shore line improvements kept volunteer crews busy long after the initial project was completed. |
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The waterfront program stands as an example of CEDA’s ability to plan, raise funds, insure quality workmanship, and carry out a project that has continued to enhance the Camp Eastman experience for many years.
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