Once a Rover, Always a Rover

The Leader, April 1977
From: Don Swanson, Director – Scout Program and Camping & Outdoor Activities
To: Scout Leaders
Subject: Conservation Achievement Badge – Gold Stage

An inquiry was received regarding the gold stage Conservation Achievement Badge requirements 4(a) and 4(h). The inquiry raised the question as to how a Scout can complete the stated requirements while participating in one or more hikes or weekend camps.

I thought perhaps the reply to that inquiry might well be of some assistance to other Scouters.

First, the rational for hikes and camping in the Conservation Badge: when the Scout subcommittee adjusted the Badge system and updated some of the badges in 1972, the decision was made that participation in hiking and/or camping must be a prerequisite to earn an Achievement Award. Thus, all badges in the outdoor category were adjusted to ensure some involvement in hiking or camping. Badge requirements are not viewed as “tests” to be passed, but as activities within which to participate.

Secondly, there’s the perspective of what constitutes a “hike”. The common view likely includes woods, trails and a pack. Scouting defines hiking as “walking with a purpose” (Canadian Scout Handbook, page 56).

I can see your point. At first glance, how can a Scout plan and carry out an anti-litter campaign of keep a record of rainfall as part of a hike or camp? If viewed as tests, the requirements are difficult if not impossible. When viewed as activities, I think they take on a different meaning.

Let’s start with the requirement for the litter campaign.

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Setting The Rules

It was dusk and the sun was setting fast.

“Right, listen up, I only have one rule tonight.”

The group of 9 bunched together, the youngest distracted by the mass of the crowd.

“There must always be a scouter in the front, and one at the back. You have full control of which way we go, but never race in front of the scouter at the front, or fall behind the one at the back.
Understood?”

The drone of noise from the chatty 200 people still in line is only punctuated by periodic cacophony of youth finding their own entertainment.

“Does that mean the leader up front have to keep up with me?”

“No, it means you stay close to the group, but I like your thinking. Here’s your map for each of you. Scouts, you’re in charge of the compass, an extra-large map, and the score sheet. You’ll need to hand score sheet to the stations as we arrive, and keep it safe as we travel.”

“Ooh, ooh I want.”

Looks like the double-sized map is as shiny as thought it would be.

“Alright, it’s 7:30, we have to be back by midnight. Where to first?”
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