Camp Out Exercise 2

ASSIGNMENT 2 ARID CLIMATE

The setting is a national park several hours' drive from the Varsity Scouts' homes. The park is in an arid region of the southwestern United States. The scenery is spectacular and the hiking trails are inviting, and much of the park is a designated wilderness. In September, the month the team members can make the trip, most of the springs and streams have dried up and water is scarce.

1. What opportunities are there in this scenario for a successful Scouting event?

2. As you consider this event, what are your issues of concern?

3. What ethical choices are likely to come up during this activity?

4. What leadership roles can Varsity Scouts assume in planning and carrying out this weekend event?

5. How can the youth leadership of the team best be utilized?

6. What opportunities for advancement can be woven into this event?

7. In what ways can the values of Scouting be promoted through this activity?

8. Using the resources of The Varsity Scout Guidebook, write down the names of the checklists you as Varsity Coach will need to consider for this event to be a success, and note the importance of each one. (For example, rather than listing every item of gear that will be needed, simply write down the name of the appropriate gear checklist and then a sentence or two of explanation.) Include in your notes any other gear or supplies that are not covered by the standard checklists.

9. What portions of the planning and leadership of this event can be delegated to the team's assistant Varsity Coaches? What support should be requested from the team committee?

10. Providing a sufficient supply of water and protecting everyone from exposure to the sun will be interesting challenges for the team. What solutions do you have? Where can you go to get more information about these issues and other considerations for camping in an arid environment?

11. Discuss the importance of the following four points of the Sweet 16 of BSA Safety, especially as they apply to your preparations for this specific activity:

• Equipment selection and maintenance

• Personal safety equipment

• Safety procedures and policies & Skill level limits

12. Consider how the team can conform to the principles of Leave No Trace.

13. Consider how you would go about discovering the possibilities of an appropriate conservation project for the team to do and the right way for it to be conducted. (It should be good for the land, meaningful for the Varsity Scouts, and planned well in advance with the assistance of appropriate personnel of the state park.)