We Own Adventure

Scouting News for the DC Metro Area

The Scouter Digest Staff

Congratulations to Sara Holtz, National Outdoor Ethics Distinguished Service Award Recipient

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Hearty Congratulations to Sara Holtz, one of Scouting America’s 2024 National Outdoor Ethics Distinguished Service Award recipients. The award recognizes Scouters who are exemplary leaders in Outdoor Ethics within their councils and on a national level.

Sara is the current chair of the Outdoor Ethics Committee and is the main reason why the National Capital Area Council is seen as a leader in Outdoor Ethics training, program development, and delivery. Her lead in developing a training program for Troop Outdoor Ethics Guides is one example within the council. She has spearheaded the development of the NCAC Cub Scout Outdoor Ethics Awareness Award and its requirements and led the contest to design a patch for the award. This award is unique to our council.

She is a Level 2/Master Educator for Leave No Trace. Her leadership has helped build a robust group of Outdoor Ethics Trainers, both adult, and Scouts, who deliver programs throughout the NCAC and even to other councils and the Philmont Ranger cadre.

Sara is a Distinguished Conservation Service Award Adviser and has worked to develop a growing program within the council. She is a source of expertise for other councils who are starting/reinvigorating programs in their councils. The last offering of online training for DCSA hosted participants (scouts, parents, and potential advisors) from the NCAC and eight other councils. She is also a member of the NCAC Conservation Committee.

We are fortunate to have Sara as a leader in the National Capital Area Council.

Eagle Scout Project for Sterling Volunteer Fire & Rescue Squads

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For his Eagle Scout project, Eric A. and his fellow Scouts from Boy Scout Troop 572 worked to revitalize the outdoor patio/firepit area behind the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company, Station 618 in Sterling, VA.

Under Eric’s leadership, the Scouts first cleared the area of debris and overgrown vegetation. They then dug up the area to place down the new underlayment, installed edging and spread the gravel. New benches and Adirondack chairs were built, stained, and weatherproofed for seating. Solar accent lighting was also added for evening use.

The Sterling Volunteer Fire Company and Sterling Volunteer Rescue Squad were very appreciative of the support and hard work of Eric and his dedicated team of Scouts. The newly restored area will provide a space for the volunteers to congregate, rest, and recharge for years to come.

Watch Troop 1396 Conquers Wind River Range in Wyoming 2024

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Experience Troop 1396’s summer trek in Wyoming adventure by watching their epic video compilation, Troop 1396 Conquers Wind River Range in Wyoming 2024! Relive the thrilling moments with our Troop and Crew as they explored the great outdoors.

During the last week of June 2024, as the National Capital Region sweltered in temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, a contingent of 19 Scouts and Scouters from across Northern Virginia embarked on a high adventure trek sponsored by the NCAC High Adventure Committee. This group included 10 members of Troop 1396, comprised of both male and female Scouts and adult leaders.

The adventure began with travel to Wyoming, where the crew started their journey at Yellowstone National Park. They marveled at Old Faithful and encountered wildlife such as bison, mule deer, and other small mammals. Following this, they drove south to Grand Teton National Park and undertook an acclimation hike to Taggert Lake, a seven-mile trek rising from 6,000 to 7,500 feet. They then visited the town of Jackson, Wyoming, to see the sights before spending a few days at Granite Creek Campground.

At Granite Creek, the Troop embarked on another 10-mile acclimation hike and were rewarded at the end with some time swimming at the Granite Hot Springs. This relaxation was a welcome respite before the real challenge began.

The Troop’s rigorous trek through the Wind River Range started at the Big Sandy Trailhead. Their first major stop was Big Sandy Lake, a picturesque yet demanding destination. Over the next two days, they faced a series of formidable hardships.

Adjusting to the high elevation of nearly 12,000 feet took its toll on many members of the Crew, with the thin air causing labored breathing and slowing their progress. They also encountered harsh weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, fierce wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, and sudden hail and rain storms. These extreme conditions added considerable physical and mental strain, testing their resilience and adaptability.

The unexpected snow and ice crossings further complicated the trek. The Scouts had to navigate through these treacherous areas with care, relying on their scouting skills and leadership training to ensure safety and progress. The combination of high elevation, challenging terrain, and harsh weather conditions pushed their limits and demanded constant adjustment.

Despite these adversities, the Troop’s spirit remained unshaken. Their resilience and teamwork enabled them to overcome these hardships and complete the journey successfully. The breathtaking beauty of the tall peaks and mountains provided the motivation needed to persevere.

After these grueling days, the remainder of the trek was literally downhill to base camp. Over the course of approximately 52 miles, Troop 1396 encountered various wildlife, though they were fortunate to avoid any dangerous encounters with bears or mountain lions. Along the way, they enjoyed excellent trout fishing in the lakes and streams, providing a rewarding respite from the strenuous hiking.

This remarkable adventure through the Wind River Range will undoubtedly be a cherished memory for Troop 1396, highlighting their ability to overcome significant challenges and appreciate the beauty of nature. The diversity of the crew, consisting of both male and female Scouts and leaders, further exemplified the Scout spirit and teamwork that defined this extraordinary journey.

For more details about the adventure, go to https://www.troop1396.org/high-adventure/wyoming-2024.

Summer Camp Planning for Bear and Webelos Den Leaders

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Bear and Webelos Den Leaders! Now that you are in your role of Den Leader to incredible Bear and Webelos Scouts, you and your Den are invited to attend Summer Camp at Camp Ross at Goshen Scout Reservation this coming summer!

Camp Ross is home to a week-long summer camp experience just for rising (incoming) Webelos and rising Arrow of Light Scouts. Here, they’ll take part in some amazing outdoor adventures, including swimming, boating, fishing, archery, BB shooting, hiking, and outdoor skills development (to name a few)!

You are invited to start planning your Summer 2025 Adventures on Monday, October 14, 2024 at 7:00 pm. We’ll review “A Day in the Life” at Camp Ross, walk through the registration process, and answer any questions you may have.

As you are learning, the Cub Scout Program provides Scouts with the opportunity to learn about being a member of their family, how to take an active role in serving their neighborhood, and living by the ideals of the Scouting Program. At Camp Ross, our Scouts become members of a Camp Community with Scouts from across the Council. They meet new friends, make lasting memories, and take critical steps in learning about the next part of their Scouting journey: Scouts BSA.

To attend this Zoom Meeting, please register at:
Camp Ross: A Summer Camp Adventure for Rising Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts
https://ncacbsa-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gj5BxZxkSHSthMnV3QXQrw#/registration

In the meantime, explore what NCAC Cub Scout Parents and Leaders are saying about their own Camp Ross experience on our YouTube Channel:

Enhance Your Pack Summer! What Leaders are Saying About Camp Ross

“I look forward to seeing your Den at Camp Ross this summer!” – Elisabeth Warren, Goshen Scout Reservation Director, National Capital Area Council, BSA

Aspiring Scientists Excel as STEM Scouts

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STEM Scouts Lab 239 in Fredericksburg, VA, is a beacon of innovation and scientific exploration for young minds. With a mission to inspire and nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators, this lab actively cultivates a passion for STEM among elementary and middle school students.

Last year, the elementary school lab at Rocky Run Elementary mentored 18 aspiring scientists. The curriculum included Chemistry, Archaeology, Robotics/Coding, and Inventing modules that aligned with students’ interests, challenged their understanding of the world around them, and fostered critical thinking skills. Students engaged in a hands-on learning environment, conducting experiments and projects that brought abstract concepts to life. Dedicated adult mentors enriched the experience by providing personalized support and encouragement to each student.

A truly standout achievement was the completion of “Supernova Awards” by six Cub Scouts – the most awards earned in Aquia District since the inception of the NOVA program! The Supernova is a prestigious award requiring Cub Scouts to demonstrate exceptional proficiency in STEM subjects. It is a testament to the quality of education and mentorship that these young students successfully met the rigorous standards to earn this award.

Last year, Lab 239 also launched a middle school program, successfully mentoring eight students in the fields of Microbiology and Astronomy. These subjects ignited Scouts’ curiosity and provided a deeper understanding of the biological sciences and the universe. Activities ranged from studying microorganisms under a microscope to exploring the stars and planets. The focus on hands-on learning and real-world applications is helping prepare students for future academic and career pursuits in STEM fields.

STEM Scouts Lab 239 continues its mission of inspiring young minds by introducing all new modules at Rocky Run Elementary in September. The elementary school lab meets two Tuesdays a month; the middle school lab meets two Thursdays a month. Regular meetings offer students opportunities to explore new concepts, engage in collaborative projects, and build skills.

STEM Scouts Lab 239 remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators, ensuring they will Be Prepared to tackle future 21st-century challenges and opportunities.

You can follow the lab on Facebook: STEM Scouts Lab 239, Fredericksburg, VA

 

DCSA Forest Restoration for Tomorrow – Zane J

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My name is Zane J, and I am an Eagle Scout from Troop 345 in the Wolf Trap District. I started the Distinguished Conservation Service Award (DCSA) to help the environment and the community. 

I led a forestation and range management project in Glyndon Park in Vienna, VA. I noticed that as the park was developed over time, many trees and plant life were removed as a consequence. I also noticed the park has a significant number of older trees nearing their life span, and there were not many younger trees. Over time, the loss of trees harms the plants, animals, and overall ecosystem, and the park could benefit from having the next generation of plants installed. The first step I took was to plant native 136 native plants in Glyndon Park to bring younger native plants to the park. Planting new native species is crucial as they are better adapted to local conditions and can create a more diverse and resilient ecosystem. By increasing native plants in the area, I hope to bring more native birds, bees, butterflies, and overall more wildlife, which in turn will have a major benefit to the park’s health. 

However, planting native species was only the first step in park restoration, and the second part involved removing invasive species.  It is a necessary part of this project to help the native plants thrive. Invasive species are known to outcompete native plants for resources, which can disrupt the balance of ecosystems and pose a serious threat to all wildlife within them. Removing invasive species at Glyndon Park will help ensure the park’s newly planted native species thrive in the future. Some of the invasive species removed that threatened native wildlife included English ivy, periwinkle, leatherleaf mahonia, wineberry, creeping euonymus, autumn olive, Japanese holly, Japanese honeysuckle,  and barberry. I partnered with the local community, including schools, Scouts BSA, Girl Scouts, Nature Specialist Club, and the Town of Vienna. I worked with over 50 volunteers and this project had over 200 volunteer hours. Additionally, I educated over 140 people on the importance of forestation and range management.  

The Scouting America’s DCSA program honors Scouts who carry out significant conservation projects with more rigorous requirements than a Scout BSA Eagle Scout project.  To earn the award, Scouts must complete two supersize Scout environmentally-related projects.  It requires the Scout to conduct in-depth research of a conservation issue; determine a solution; write a report; plan, execute, and lead a project; educate the community outreach; write final project reports; present their projects and findings before a conservation committee, and finally, earn seven conservation type merit badges.

My first conservation project focused on recycling tennis balls, and it was a success. Over 10,000 tennis balls were recycled, and the program I set up at Fairfax Racket Club continues to this day. I hope to inspire others to make a difference in their communities and positively impact the world.