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Philmont Trek Report

Philmont_Scout_Ranch_arrowheadTwo crews of Troop 407 Scouts and their adult advisors went on a life-changing summer trek through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico this summer. The two treks, 625E1 and 625E2, selected different itineraries (#23 and #19, respectively) to experience hiking and to participate in diverse activities. During their 12-day treks, the venture crews hiked 74 and 72 miles.

The groups of Scouts and their adult advisors carried on their backs everything they needed to survive during the trek while hiking from camp to camp. (more…)

Merit badge updates: Cycling, Sustainability, Programming, Game Design

Many new merit badges and updates to existing ones have been rolled out this summer. Here’s a synopsis:

  • The Cycling merit badge adds a mountain bike option. Here’s a story on the changes from Scouting Magazine.
  • The Sustainability merit badge became available at the 2013 National Scout Jamboree. Read the requirements and get ready to earn this new merit badge, which will become Eagle-required starting next year.
  • The Programming merit badge, a tech-focused merit badge for the 21st century, also was released at Jamboree. Here are the requirements.
  • Both traditional and video games are covered by the new Game Design merit badge released earlier this year. Here’s more information on this sure-to-be-popular badge.

Scouts wishing to explore these merit badges should follow the usual procedure by first talking with Mr. Heslop to obtain a blue card and a referral to a counselor. (more…)

New merit badge: Mining in Society

MiningA new merit badge, Mining in Society, is set for an early 2014 launch. Mining has been an important part of the United States since the 19th century. Today, the U.S. mining industry employes 3 million people, directly and indirectly, and is a major contributor to the global mining landscape. This merit badge is expected to cover the history of mining, explore the status of mining in the 21st century, and introduce Scouts to modern mining careers.

See our earlier article for other updates on current and upcoming merit badges.

Merit badge updates

Boy Scouts of America are planning several new merit badge offerings over the next couple years, as well as some updates to existing merit badges and rank requirements. Here’s a summary: (more…)

© 2024 Troop 407, Novi, Michigan - Boy Scouts of America
© 2024 Troop 407, Novi, Michigan - Boy Scouts of America