PACK 172
 
Conservation Good Turn
 
 
 
  Since 1910, conservation has been an integral part of the program of the Boy Souts of America. Scouts have helped to conserve wildlife, energy, forests, soil, and water through numerous public service projects. Past generations of scouts have been recognized for undertaking conservation Good Turn projects in their local communities.

Today's scouts have grown up with the goal of conservation. They understand the need for, and the benefits of, conserving natural resources. Scouts understand that we all must work together for the betterment of the land, forests, wildlife, air, and water.

The Conservation Good Turn provides the opportunity for today's Scouts to join with conservation or environmental organizations (federal, state, local, or private) to carry out a conservation project in their home community.

A certificate is awarded to units that perform and report on a Conservation Good Turn. A patch is also available to recognize individual scouts who participate in a meaningful conservation project.

 
  These are the steps:
  1. The Scouting unit contacts a conservation agency and offers to carry out a Good Turn project.
  2. The agency identifies a worthwhile and needed project that the unit can accomplish.
  3. Working together in the local community, the unit and the agency plan the details and establish the date, time, and location for carrying out the project.
  4. The unit submits a report on the project to the local council service center and applies for unit recognition.
 
  Project Ideas:
 
  Cub Scouting conservation projects should include the entire Cub Scout pack, each den, adult leaders and family members. Hands-on projects help Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts realize that everyone can do things to care for the environment. Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts participating in the Conservation Good Turn can also meet some advancement requirements. Some ideas suggested by the BSA include, but are not limited to:
  • Plant grasses, trees, shrubs, and ground cover to stop soil erosion.
  • As a den or pack, adopt a park. Remove litter and garbage from a favorite neighborhood recreation area or park.
  • Organize or participate in a recycling program in your neighborhood, or visit a recycling center.
  • Arrange a natural resources awareness program. Invite natural resource professionals such as wildlife biologists, soil conservationists, foresters, or conservation officers to speak to your pack.
  • Participate in a beach or waterfront cleanup. Record the items collected and determine the possible harmful effects to wildlife. With youth participation, develop a plan to educate the public about the dangers posed to wildlife.
  • From a local, state, or national organization that is concerned about environmental protection, obtain suggestions for den and pack projects to improve the environment.
  • As a den or pack, visit a public utility to learn about the wise use of resources, and become involved in programs offered by utilities to help consumers conserve resources.
  • Contact the camp ranger or BSA local council property superintendent for information about camp needs and plans. Establish a nature trail, plant vegetation, or carry out other needed projects as requested by the camp ranger.
 
 
 
  For more information, contact a member of the Pack Committee.
 
 
 
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Last Updated: 10/10/00 JRC