Sunday, April 05, 2026
32.0°F

Trail Life CDA takes lead on accessibility project

HAILEY HILL | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 3 months AGO
by HAILEY HILL
Staff Writer | January 5, 2025 1:07 AM

COEUR d’ALENE — The boys of Trail Life CDA certainly weren’t taking a snow day Saturday.

Instead, three members of the faith-based troop got together to help paint platforms that will be used to make ranges at the Fernan Rod and Gun Club more accessible to wheelchair users.

“It’s just about helping other people,” said 14-year-old Jack Peterson. “I painted over the summer, too, so I’m getting more of that experience.”

The boys made sure to paint the trim a vibrant yellow to ensure users can clearly see the edge, preventing accidental falls.

The project is the next step in the Fernan club’s efforts toward total accessibility.

“We’re trying to expand and become more disability-friendly all the time,” said Bill Demer with the Fernan Rod and Gun Club. “This is the last step in a three-year process.”

Saturday’s project aligns with the troop’s goals of fostering service and leadership skills in local boys and teens.

Though the materials were provided in this case, often the older members organize the entire projects themselves.

“We’re teaching them that whatever they do in life, they can be effective leaders in their community,” said Trail Life CDA troop leader Don Jones. “Doing projects like this helps them do that.” 

ARTICLES BY HAILEY HILL

Summit highlights restoration efforts in North Idaho
March 28, 2026 1 a.m.

Summit highlights restoration efforts in North Idaho

Dam removal expected to open up 14 additional miles of Westslope habitat

A lot of great things are happening in North Idaho, said Kootenai Environmental Alliance board president Dave Muise as he welcomed around 50 attendees to the organization’s third annual Green Summit.

Hayden Council withholds marina support
March 26, 2026 1:09 a.m.

Hayden Council withholds marina support

Public hearing set for April 15

Hayden City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to deny Hayden Lake Marina’s request for a letter of support for their proposed expansion project, which would see the removal and replacement of existing docks with a new configuration that would include 32 new slips.

Volunteers to tackle trail repairs at Tubbs Hill
March 26, 2026 1 a.m.

Volunteers to tackle trail repairs at Tubbs Hill

Volunteers are invited to roll up their sleeves Friday, April 3 for a day of trail work on Tubbs Hill.