Have you ever wondered about the purpose of Outdoor Ethics in Scouting? Have you ever wondered what the role of a Troop’s Outdoor Ethics Guide is? Never fear, as the NCAC Outdoor Ethics Committee can help you out!
On Saturday, June 29, 15 Scouts and Scouters attended the Outdoor Ethics Orientation, and eight Scouts attended the Outdoor Ethics Guide Course in Brandywine, MD, hosted by EvelynAnn Bruno. Taking advantage of the air conditioning on that balmy summer day, Scouts and Scouters learned the basics of Outdoor Ethics and how to integrate them into Scouting and everyday life.
The Outdoors Ethic Orientation, a BSA National recognized course, is available to all ages and units. This orientation introduces the concept of Land Ethic, the seven principles of Leave No Trace, and the five principles of Tread Lightly! This course is a great way to introduce those new to the Scouting program and provide an excellent review for those who have been around for a while. By attending this course hosted by EvelynAnn, Scouts completed two of the requirements for the Outdoor Ethics Awareness Award (for both Scouts BSA and NCAC Cub Scouts). The course is one requirement, plus EvelynAnn shows the National Park Service’s Leave No Trace video at the end.
The Outdoor Ethics Guide (OEG) Course, which is an NCAC exclusive, was created to provide Scouts in Scouts BSA and their leaders with an explanation of the role of this leadership position in the troop and expectations. A quick refresher on Outdoor Ethics is followed by a myriad of Outdoor Ethics-themed games demonstrated to the Scouts, plus post-game brainstorming of how to bring these games to their individual units. This course is not mandatory to fill the OEG role but may prove helpful in understanding its function plus getting access to all the resources available.
Want to know more about Outdoor Ethics? Scan the QR Code and subscribe to the NCAC’s Outdoor Ethics Newsletter! The Outdoor Ethics in BSA Outdoor Programs webpage serves as another great resource!
Want to know more about the available Outdoor Ethics Awareness Awards? Scouts BSA has five requirements to complete, while NCAC Cub Scouts has four. Both can be earned by both Scouts and Scouters.
You can learn more about the missions of Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly! at their individual websites.
EvelynAnn Bruno is a Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor and Tread Lightly! Trainer, in addition to being the Committee Chair of Troop 1778 in Waldorf and Treasurer of Pack 1014 of Brandywine. Located in Upper Marlboro, MD, she supports Patuxent and Western Shores Districts.
#weownadventure #LeaveNoTrace #treadlightly #doyourpart #ProtectTheAdventure
