Hammocks in the Garden – An Eagle Scout Project

By Lauren Vogel

At Project Chimps, every space tells a story. Care, creativity, and the people who show up for our organization shape each one. One of those stories belongs to Jack Stowers, an Eagle Scout whose dedication and problem‑solving skills brought a unique new addition to our sanctuary. For his Eagle Scout project, Jack transformed unused firehoses into a set of hammocks for our garden—creating a welcoming, restful space for visitors. With perseverance, teamwork, and a spark of creativity, Jack left a lasting impact on Project Chimps.

Why Choose Project Chimps?

Jack first visited Project Chimps as a Cub Scout on a troop tour. “I went to Project Chimps on a tour and got to see the chimps. I really liked it, so I thought I’d come back and help,” he shared. The chimps made a strong impression on him, and the sanctuary stayed in his mind for years.

When it came time to choose an Eagle Scout project, Jack knew he wanted to support an organization that had inspired him since childhood. He reached out to Ali Crumpacker, our Executive Director, and together they developed a project that was both creative and innovative—exactly what Jack hoped for.

The Eagle Scout Project: Hammocks in the Garden

Jack built five hammocks using donated firehoses and installed them throughout our garden for visitors to enjoy. Although designed for humans, the hammocks were modeled after the ones used by the chimpanzees. “They’re built like the ones the chimps have, but they’re for people to sit and watch,” Jack explained.

His goal was to create a peaceful place where visitors could relax, learn, and observe the garden where food for the chimpanzees is grown.

From Idea to Completion

When Jack first approached Project Chimps, he wasn’t sure what his project would be. Ali provided a list of possibilities, and after some thought, Jack chose the firehose hammock idea. “Once I had the idea, it was really about working through every step and having a plan if something went wrong,” he said.

After completing the required paperwork and planning, Jack was ready to begin.

Materials, Safety, and Construction

Finding affordable, sustainable materials can be a challenge—but Jack had a head start. Local fire stations regularly donate expired firehoses to Project Chimps for enrichment projects, and Jack was able to repurpose many of them for his hammocks.

He also prioritized environmental responsibility. Jack researched hardware options to ensure the bolts used to mount the hammocks would not harm the trees or rust over time. “The main research I had to do was making sure the bolts were the right ones so they wouldn’t hurt the trees or rust inside them,” he explained.

Jack ultimately built two rectangular hammocks and three triangular ones. While he encountered a few challenges—especially ensuring the hammocks fit properly between trees—he adjusted his measurements and solved each issue as it arose.

Collaboration and Leadership

Jack didn’t work alone. Volunteers stepped in to help assemble and install the hammocks, and Facilities Technician, Michael Mauldin, supported him throughout the process.

Jack focused on assigning tasks so that everyone stayed engaged and the project moved efficiently. This gave him the opportunity to apply the leadership skills he learned in Scouting. At first, he found it difficult to step back and lead rather than do everything himself. “I had to stop doing the work myself sometimes and remember that I was supposed to be in charge,” he said. Over time, he grew more comfortable in the leadership role, and the project came together smoothly.

Impact and Takeaways

The finished project received overwhelmingly positive feedback from Project Chimps staff and visitors. Jack was thrilled to hear it described as a “big hit.” The challenges he faced along the way made the success even more meaningful. “There were moments where I didn’t think I was going to finish it, but you just have to keep going and get the work done,” he reflected.

Jack hopes his perseverance encourages other Scouts to push through obstacles and consider completing their own projects with Project Chimps. “I hope more people choose to do projects for Project Chimps—it’s a really good organization and they deserve the help,” he said.

Do you know a scout that is coming upon their time to do their final project? Invite them to reach out to us today!