Camp Out Exercise 3

ASSIGNMENT THREE - RUGGED TERRAIN

The setting is a state park an hours drive from the Varsity Scouts homes that is famous for its dramatic cliffs. Climbing and rappelling are popular public activities in this area. Team members have been talking about those sports since the previous summer when they did some introductory climbing and rappelling during their week long stay at a council Scout camp. During their annual program planning session they decided to devote a month of meetings to learning about climbing and rappelling. The highlight of the month will be a weekend camp out at the state park. The outing will occur on a weekend in June two months from now.

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. 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.

8. 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?

9. The BSA has rigorous standards for any Scout unit engaging in climbing and rappelling activities. Find those standards in The Varsity Scout Guidebook and determine what planning must be done for your team to enjoy climbing and rappelling during their weekend at the

State park.

10. 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.

• Weather Check

• Planning

• Communication

• Permits and notices

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

12. 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.)