Horseshoe Scout Reservation

Cub Scout Camping

2012-02-22T08:19:00.003-05:00

Since 1930, the BSA has helped younger boys through Cub Scouting. Cub Scouting (including Tiger Cubs) is a year-round family oriented part of the BSA program designed for boys who are in first through fifth grades (or are 7, 8, 9 and 10 years old). Parents, leaders, and organizations work together to achieve the 10 purposes of Cub Scouting:

Character development
Spiritual growth
Good citizenship
Sportsmanship and fitness
Family understanding
Respectful relationships
Personal achievement
Friendly service
Fun and adventure
Preparation for Boy Scouts

Philosophy of Scout Camping

A common thread of purpose and method runs through every part of the Scout camping program. Our aim is to clearly define that thread in each part of our camping program so that the purposes of Scouting will be made clear and the common methods that are followed will unify our units as teams dedicated to the highest ideals of camping and service.

Organized camping is a creative, educational experience in cooperative group living in the outdoors. It uses the natural surroundings to contribute significantly to physical, mental, spiritual, and social growth.

Camping contributes to good health through supervised activity, sufficient rest, good fun, and wholesome companionship.
Camping helps develop self-reliance and resourcefulness by providing learning experiences in which campers acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes essential to their well-being.
Camping enhances spiritual growth by helping campers recognize and appreciate nature and the handiwork of God in nature.

Camping contributes to social development by providing experiences in which campers learn to deal practically and effectively with living situations.
Camping is an experience in citizenship training, providing campers with the medium for democratic participation in making decisions, planning, and carrying out activities at their own level, while improving understanding within the family.
Camping at the Cub Scout level introduces boys to and helps them develop skills to be applied and learned more thoroughly as a Boy Scout.

Character Development

Since its origin, the program of the Boy Scouts of America has been an educational experience concerned with values. In 1910, the first Scouting activities were designed to build character, physical fitness, practical skills, and service. These elements were a part of the original Cub Scout program and continue to be part of Cub Scouting today.

Just as character development should extend into every aspect of a boy's life, so character development should extend into every aspect of Cub Scouting. Cub Scout leaders should strive to use Cub Scouting's 12 core values throughout all elements of the program, including resident camp.

Cub Scouting's 12 Core Values

Citizenship

Compassion

Cooperation

Courage

Faith

Health and fitness

Honesty

Perseverance

Positive attitude

Resourcefulness

Respect

Responsibility

Leave No Trace Guidelines for Cub Scouts

2012-02-22T08:17:00.002-05:00

As more people use parks and recreation facilities, LEAVE NO TRACE® guidelines become even more important for outdoor visitors.

Leave No Trace is a plan that helps people to be more concerned about their environment and to help them protect it for future generations. Leave No Trace applies in a backyard or local park (frontcountry) as much as it does in the wilderness (backcountry).

We should practice Leave No Trace in our attitude and actions--wherever we go. Understanding nature strengthens our respect toward the environment. One person with thoughtless behavior or one shortcut on a trail can spoil the outdoor experience for others.

Help protect the environment by remembering that while you are there, you are a visitor. When you visit the outdoors, take special care of the area. Leave everything just as you find it.

Hiking and camping without a trace are signs of a considerate outdoorsman who cares for the environment. Travel lightly on the land.

Watch for hazards and follow all the rules of the park or outdoor facility. Remember proper clothing, sunscreen, hats, first aid kits, and plenty of drinking water. Use the buddy system. Make sure you carry your family's name, phone number, and address.

Stay on marked trails whenever possible. Short-cutting trails causes the soil to wear away or to be packed, which eventually kills trees and other vegetation. Trampled wildflowers and vegetation take years to recover. Stick to trails!

Managing your pet will keep people, dogs, livestock, and wildlife from feeling threatened. Make sure your pet is on a leash or controlled at all times. Do not let your pet approach or chase wildlife. When animals are chased or disturbed, they change eating patterns and use more energy that may result in poor health or death.

Take care of your pet's waste. Take a small shovel or scoop and a pick-up bag to pick up your pet's waste— wherever it's left. Place the waste bags in a trash can for disposal.

When visiting any outdoor area, try to leave it the same as you find it. The less impact we each make, the longer we will enjoy what we have. Even picking flowers denies others the opportunity to see them and reduces seeds, which means fewer plants next year.

Use established restrooms. Graffiti and vandalism have no place anywhere, and they spoil the experience for others. Leave your mark by doing an approved conservation project.

Expect to meet other visitors. Be courteous and make room for others. Control your speed when biking or running. Pass with care and let others know before you pass. Avoid disturbing others by making noise or playing loud music.

Respect "No Trespassing" signs. If property boundaries are unclear, do not enter the area.

Make sure all trash is put in a bag or trash receptacle. Trash is unsightly and ruins everyone's outdoor experience. Your trash can kill wildlife. Even materials, such as orange peels, apple cores and food scraps, take years to break down and may attract unwanted pests that could become a problem.


	1. Discuss with your den's Cub Scouts or your pack's leaders the importance of the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines. 2. On three separate outings demonstrate and practice the frontcountry guidelines of Leave No Trace. 3. Participate in presenting a den, pack, district, or council awareness session on Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines. 4. Participate in a Leave No Trace-related service project. 5. Commit yourself to the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines by signing the Cub Scout Leave No Trace Pledge. 6. Assist at least three boys in earning Cub Scouting's Leave No Trace Awareness Award.

Patches (catalog number 08797) are available through your local council.

You can take the pledge to practice the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines wherever you go. Just review the guidelines and promise to practice them in your frontcountry outings.

I promise to practice the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines wherever I go:

1.       Plan ahead.
2.       Stick to trails.
3.       Manage your pet.
4.       Leave what you find.
5.       Respect other visitors.
6.       Trash your trash.

Leave No Trace Award Application :
http://www.scouting.org/filestore/cubscouts/pdf/512-012_wb.pdf

Handyman Events

2012-02-22T08:11:00.004-05:00



	Nail Driving Items Needed: Sawhorse Hammer (If using more than one, they must be identical; 10-ounce is suggested.) 16-penny common nails (approximately 12 per pound) 2-by-4-inch board (nailed to sawhorse Safety glasses Colored marker and a watch Procedure: The adult supervising this event starts about six nails into the two-by-four nailed to the sawhorse. The Cub Scout is given the command to start and has to drive in one nail completely. If it bends, he can move on to another one, and so on, until he nails one in or reaches the maximum time of 1 1/2 minutes (90 seconds). The adult marks the boy's time in seconds on his score sheet with a specific colored marker and initials it. The Cub Scout takes back his sheet, moves to the next event of his choice, and presents his sheet to that event. Safety Notes: Adults work with one Cub Scout at a time. The Cub Scout must keep both hands on the hammer, or keep one hand on the hammer and the other hand behind his back, and wear safety glasses Handsawing Items Needed: A vise bolted to a 1-by-6-inch board, 12 inches long Two "C" clamps (to clamp the vise to a heavy table) Sufficient quantity of 3/4-by-1-inch wood to be cut (approximately2 inches to cut off plus 12 inches to be held by the vise) Handsaw Safety glasses Colored marker and a watch Procedure: Leave a few inches of wood protruding from the side of the vise. Give the Cub Scout the command to start, and time him as he cuts completely through the wood. Maximum time is 1 1/2 minutes (90 seconds). The adult marks the boy's time in seconds on his score sheet with a specific colored marker and initials it. The Cub Scout takes back his sheet, moves to the next event of his choice, and presents his sheet to that event. Safety Notes: The adult might have to sit on the table or rest a foot on it while the Cub Scout is sawing to limit movement. The Cub Scout keeps either both hands on the saw, or one had on the saw and the other hand behind his back (saws tend to bind and jump out of the saw kerf.) Drilling Items Needed: Drilling brace and bit (3/4-inch bit suggested) Piece of 1/4-inch plywood, approximately 2 by 3 feet Backer board of 3/4-inch plywood, approximately 2 by 3 feet (backer board is placed under 1/4-inch plywood to protect damage to bit) Safety glasses Colored marker and a watch Procedure: Place 1/4-inch plywood on 3/4-inch plywood, which is set on floor. Give the Cub Scout the command to start. He must drill only one hole through the 1/4-inch plywood. (The 1/4-inch plywood will lift up approximately 1 to 2 inches when the bit is through.) He is timed until completely finished. Maximum time is 1 1/2 minutes (90 seconds). The adult marks the boy's time in seconds on his score sheet with a specific colored marker and initials it. The Cub Scout takes back his sheet, moves to the next event of his choice, and presents his sheet to that event. Safety Notes: An adult must advise the Cub Scout to stabilize the boards and himself with his foot or feet if he desires. Shingle Pulling Items Needed: Plastic sled Bundle shingles (approximately 40 pounds weight) Rope approximately 10 feet long to pull sled Colored marker Watch Procedure: The adult supervising this event marks off a specific course. (A straight line of about 15 feet is a good distance.) The Cub Scout receives the command to start and must pull the weighted sled from start to finish as fast as possible. If the sled dumps shingles, the Cub Scout must replace them in the sled and continue to the finish line. Maximum time is 1 1/2 minutes (90 seconds). The adult marks the boy's time in seconds on his score sheet with a specific colored marker and initials it. The Cub Scout takes back his sheet, moves to the next event of his choice, and presents his sheet to that event. Safety Notes: Keep away from downhill runs. Watch for a fallen boy getting hit by a runaway sled.		Nuts-Bolts-Washers Items Needed: Five different sizes of nuts, bolts, and washers Board, drilled to accept bolts (attach a bolt to the board with one of the nuts) Colored marker Watch Procedure: Place the board on a table (or on the floor). (Washers and nuts should be placed in line, but randomly, on the board and their shape outlined with a colored marker so that every Cub Scout starts with items placed in the same location.) When the Cub Scout is given the command to start, he must first place the washers on the appropriate bolts. Next he must put the proper nuts on the bolts and start threading. It is not necessary to thread very far, but nuts must not be just set on. The Cub Scout is timed until finished or until he reaches the maximum time is 1 1/2 minutes (90 seconds). The adult marks the boy's time in seconds on his score sheet with a specific colored marker and initials it. The Cub Scout takes back his sheet, moves to the next event of his choice, and presents his sheet to that event. Light the Match Items Needed: Stool, board, or log with many holes Hatchet Wooden matches (approximately three per Cub Scout plus extras0 Safety glasses Colored marker and a watch Procedure: The adult places about 12 matches in various holes in top of the stool. When the Cub Scout receives the command to start, he must light an one match in a chop-type motion with the hatchet. If he breaks one or decides one won't light, he moves to another until he lights one or until reaches the maximum time of 1 1/2 minutes (90 seconds). The adult marks the boy's time in seconds on his score sheet with a specific colored marker and initials it. The Cub Scout takes back his sheet, moves to the next event of his choice, and presents his sheet to that event. Safety Notes: Adult works with one Cub Scout at a time. The Cub Scout must keep both hands on the hatchet or he is disqualified. Safety glasses must be worn. The hatchet must not be swung. It is used only in a slight chopping motion. Scoring and Awards After the Cub Scout finishes all six events, he turns in his score sheet, with all events scored by an adult. (Be sure he has his name on the sheet.) Adults add up the total time used. The winner overall is the Cub Scout who used the least amount of time. Winners can be decided for each event, or you can just have overall winners. Scouting can also be by age groups 7-8-9, and 10-11. If you determine three winners in each event from the different age groups, one in each event for all ages groups, plus an overall winner, you can have 25 different winners. The entire procedure goes quickly, as boys can select or be directed to events that are not over-crowded. Each Cub Scout must complete each event. (Otherwise, the Cub Scout receives the maximum time allowed.) Scouring can be done as Cub Scouts finish, so the total results will be known about five minutes after the conclusion of all events. The event can take place indoors or outdoors. Prizes should be in the Handyman theme. Some suggestions include: Flashlight Tape measure Screwdriver Ruler or yardstick Certificate Scoring and Awards An additional event to keep Cub Scouts and family members busy before or after the competition is guessing the number of nails in a large pickle jar (about 1/2 gallon). Any person so desiring can fill out one guess slip on the number of nails in the jar. One adult counts and records the quantity on paper and attaches it to the lid inside the jar before the event. Guess slips can be given out to all at the same time as score sheets are given to the Cub Scouts. Use a coffee can with a slot in its plastic lid to contain guesses. Items needed include: Guess sheet Pencils to record guesses Coffee can Jar Nails Tables and chairs (optional) Prizes (optional) How about other games, such as Guessing the distance in inches between points Guessing the size of a nail: 6-penny? 10-penny? Showing a chart of screws and determining which has a round, flat, or oval head Identifying tools

Hiking

2012-02-22T08:11:00.000-05:00

Hiking

Hiking is a terrific way to keep your body and mind in top shape, both now and for a lifetime. Walking packs power into your legs and makes your heart and lungs healthy and strong. Exploring the outdoors challenges you with discoveries and new ideas. Your senses will improve as you use your eyes and ears to gather information along the way.

Hikes can become more meaningful to Cub Scouts if they hike with a specific purpose in mind. Following are a few suggestions for memorable hikes. Remind boys that they are observing nature - not disturbing it; for instance, if they touch a baby animal or its home, the parents may abandon it.

Home Hike - Look for homes of different insects and animals, such as spider webs, nests, holes, and cocoons.

Tracks or Signs - Look for any signs that animals have been in the area.

Baby Hike - Gather or list all babies seen (birds, ferns, leaves, snails, etc.)

String Hike - Follow a string along the trail. Scattered along the way are objects to identify.

Mud Puddle Hike - As long as boys have proper rain gear if needed, go ahead and hike in wet weather. Note how animals and insects take cover.

Color Hike - List all objects of a selected color - who can find the most?

Snoop Hike - Explore, be aware, notice unusual things, be snoopy. Look for both natural and manmade things. Pick up litter.

Craft Hike - Hike to gather specific nature items to use in crafts projects.

Listening Hike - Hike quietly and listen for the sounds of nature - wind, rustling leaves, birds, crickets, etc.

Academics and Sports Program

The Academics and Sports program gives Cub Scouts extra recognition activities to earn. In Academics subjects and Sports, Cub Scouts learn new skills, become better scholars, learn sportsmanship, and have fun. You can get to know a sport or an academic subject that's new to you --maybe astronomy, chess, computers, science; golf, hiking, tennis, or skateboarding to name a few in the program.

Belt loops and pins are a great way to help fulfill the aims of Scouting—build character, develop citizenship, and encourage mental and physical fitness. Through a variety of subjects, you can stretch your mind and abilities by exploring the wonders of science, learning about the world, and expanding skills in new areas.

This is a chance to try something new, do your best, and earn recognition all at the same time.

Hiking Belt Loop and Pin

Requirements

Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts may complete requirements in a family, den, pack, school, or community environment. Tiger Cubs must work with their parents or adult partners. Parents and partners do not earn loops or pins.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

Explain the hiking safety rules to your den leader or adult partner. Practice these rules while on a hike.

Hiking Safety
Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
Never hike alone or at night; use the buddy system.
Dress properly for the weather and environment.
Wear sun and insect protection
Take an extra pair of socks in case you need to change.
Obey traffic signs and signals.
Avoid hiking along roadways.
Stay on the trail.
Be alert to your surroundings.
Don't litter as you hike.
Be alert to dangerous animals, insects, and plants. Never touch a wild animal.
Take 1 pint of water for each hour you will be hiking. Never drink untreated water.
Understand how "The Sweet Sixteen of BSA Safety" would apply to the hiking situation.

Demonstrate proper hiking attire and equipment.
Hike at least 30 minutes with your adult partner, family, or den.

Sports Pin

Earn the Hiking belt loop and complete five of the following requirements:

1. Make a chart and record at least five hours of hiking.

2. Help plan a den, pack, or family hike.

3. Earn Cub Scouting’s Leave No Trace Awareness Award.

4. Earn the Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award.

5. Learn seven trail signs and tell your den leader or adult partner what they are.

6. Be able to identify five different trees and five different birds on your hike. (These can be of the same species if multiple species are hard to find.)

7. Using pictures or photographs, identify three poisonous plants. (Examples are poison ivy, poison sumac, and poison oak; oleander, etc.). Watch for these plants while on a hike.

8. Take two different hikes for different purposes, for example, a nature hike, neighborhood hike, historical hike, city hike, stop-look-and-listen hike, and so on.

9. Explain to your den leader or adult partner what a compass is and show how to use one on a hike.

10. Explain to your den leader or adult partner what a global positioning system is and demonstrate how to use one on a hike.

11. With visuals such as pictures or maps, report about one of your hikes to your den. Tell about how you prepared for your hike, who went with you, and what you saw.

Games - Part II

2012-02-22T08:10:00.000-05:00

	Blob The blob begins innocently enough as a mere game of tag. As soon as a boy catches someone, they join hands. Now the second boy is part of the blob, and they set out, hand-in-hand, in search of victims. Everyone the blob catches (only the outside hand on either end of the blob can snatch players) joins hands with it and becomes part of the lengthening protoplasmic chain. An so the insidious blob keeps growing. Unlike your run-of-the-mill mad scientist-created blobs, this one is not content merely to ooze along, seeking its prey. It gallops around the field, cornering stray runners and forcing them to join up. (You'll have to agree on boundaries for this game; some people will go to any lengths to avoid being caught.) Moreover (horrors!), the blob can split itself into parts and, with its superior communal intelligence, organize raiding parties on the lone few who have managed to escape. The thrilling climax occurs when only one player is left to put up a heroic last-ditch stand on behalf of humanity. But alas, there is no defense against the blob, and humanity succumbs. (If that seems unfair, well, that's the plot.) If time permits, you can have the last person caught start the blob for the next game. Caterpillar Get everyone lying on their stomachs, side-to-side. Be sure you're packed closely together and have any little people squeeze between two big ones. Now, have the person the end of the line roll over onto his neighbor and keep rolling down the corduroy road of bodies. When he gets to the end of the line, he lies on his stomach, and the next person at the other end starts rolling. Once the momentum is going, there'll be no stopping the human caterpillar as it advances over meadows and hills. How about assembling two caterpillars for a cross-country race? Hunter Hawser This game is sure to prove that "the bigger they are, the harder they fall." If you like one-on-one competition, here it is - along with a real surprise as to what can knock you off your pedestal. Pedestals are about 6 inches high and small enough so that players can't move their feet without losing balance. (A good mount might be a block of wood or plastic foam, a tree stump, or an overturned cooking, flower, or chimney pot.)		Players hunker down on their platforms, which are set about 6 feet apart, each holding one end of a rope about 1 inch in diameter and at least 15 feet long. The excess rope lies coiled between the players - but not for long. On a signal, the players begin reeling the ropes. The object is to cause your opponent to lose balance by tightening or slackening the rope. Sound simple? "oh, I'll just give a good pull and . . ." Suddenly your opponent relaxes his hold, and over you go in a spectacular backward somersault - defeated by your own energy. In fact, the more aggressive you become, the more vulnerable you are. The whole idea of how to win becomes a topsy-turvy in this game as the pot on which you're standing. Knots Knots is a game that gets people together by pulling them apart. About a dozen players can "tie on" a good one. To form the knot, stand in a circle, shoulder-to-shoulder, and place your hands in the center. Now, everyone grabs a couple of hands. If you ever want to get out of this, be sure that no one holds both hands with the same person or holds the hand of a person right next to him. It might take a bit of switching around to get the knot tied correctly. (If you have too much trouble tying the knot, you might want to quit before you try untying it!) Now comes the true test. You'll probably notice that there are two basic approaches to untangling the knot. Some dive right into the problem - under, over, and through their teammates - hoping they'll hit upon the solution. Others might well hit upon the solution firmly rooted, hands locked in a dignified tableau, carefully surveying the situation before instructing each player precisely where to move and in what order. Because you're all in the same tangle together, you'll have to come to some agreement as to which approach to follow. (Note: Pivoting on your handholds without actually breaking your grip will make it smoother and eliminate the need for a chiropractor.) When at last the knot is unraveled (hurrah!), you will find yourselves in one large circle or, occasionally, two interconnecting ones. Every once in a while, someone will discover the one tangle that prevents the knot from resolving itself. At this pint, no other remedy being possible, it may be necessary to administer emergency "knot-aid" (a momentary break in hands) so that you can get on to the next game.

Cub Scout Games - Part 1

2012-02-22T08:09:00.000-05:00



	Three-Legged Soccer Set up for a regular game of soccer: teams, goals, boundaries, etc. You might want to make the field a bit smaller, though, and have about 20 players on each side. The only modification to regular soccer rules is that the players on each team must pair up and tie their ankles together in three-legged race fashion. Players can kick the ball with either their free feet or the "big foot". The goalie might be two people tied back-to back at the waist. To add another dash of random craziness, use a rubber football from a variety store. Why not have two balls - one for each team - going simultaneously? Three teams? One goal in the center? Try anything! Catch the Dragon's Tail It's one thing when a puppy chases its tail - and quite another when a dragon tries it. The difference you'll find in these "tails" is more than just size. You'll need a good-sized area for this game, clear of holes in the ground and trees. About eight to ten people line up, one behind the other. Everyone puts his arms around the waist of the person in front of them. (You can't be ticklish around dragons.) The last person in the line tucks a handkerchief in the back of his belt. To work up steam, the dragon might let out a few roars. On a signal, the dragon begins chasing its own tail, the object being for the person at the head of the line to snatch the handkerchief. The tricky part of this struggle is that the people at the front and the people at the end are clearly competing - but the folks in the middle aren't sure which way to go. When the head finally captures the tail, who's defeated and who's the victor? Everyone! The head dons the handkerchief and becomes the new tail, and the second from the front becomes the new head. Two dragons trying to catch each other's tails can be formidable - and also a great game. How about a whole field full of tail chasing dragons? Standup Sit on the ground, back-to-back with a partner, knees bent and elbows linked. Now, simply stand-up together. With a bit of cooperation and practice, this shouldn't be to hard.		After you have this mastered, add a third person. Have him join you on the ground, and all three of you try to stand up. Now, add a forth person. Four people standing up together might be a tremendous accomplishment. By this time, you should realize that there's more struggling, stumbling, and giggling each time you add another person. This game guarantees lots of spectators ready to join in the fun and help you get off the ground. A gracefully executed mass standup (any number greater than five) is like a blossoming flower - but a more rare event. To achieve it, start by sitting close and firmly packed. The all stand up quickly and at precisely the same time. Standoff This one-on-one battle for balance can be played almost anywhere and anytime, and the only equipment need is you! To play the game, two players stand face-to-face on a level surface at arm's length. (If one player's arms are shorter or longer than the other's, split the difference.) Each player's feet must be side-by-side, together. The players present their hands with palms facing their partners. The object of Standoff is to cause your partner to lose balance, making contact with your hands only. If your partner moves one or both feet while you retain your stance, you get one point. If he lunges forward and wraps himself around you in an impromptu "abrazzo", that's also a point for you. If both of you lose balance, no one gets a point. The game is won by the player who scores two out of three points. It is permissible to dodge and feint with your hands, but at no time during the game may players make contact with any part of their partner's body other than the hands. If such contact is made, no penalties are imposed, but the offending player should reflect upon the real point of the game. Another version of standoff is inspired by the graceful martial art of Aikido. The players start with their palms together and keep them in contact through each round. The object is still to make your partner lose balance, but sudden moves are not permissible. Played this way, the game becomes a beautiful slow-motion act that looks far more like a dance than a contest. Note: A long session of standoff can make your arms sore and leaden. Remember, you can always stop playing.

Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award

2012-02-22T08:08:00.000-05:00

Tiger Cubs, Wolf and Bear Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts have the opportunity to earn the Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award. Boys may earn the award in each of the program years as long as the requirements are completed each year. The first time the award is earned, the boy will receive the pocket flap award, which is to be worn on the right pocket flap of the uniform shirt. Each successive time the award is earned, a wolf track pin may be added to the flap. Leaders should encourage boys to build on skills and experiences from previous years when working on the award for a successive year.

Requirements

All Ranks

Attend Cub Scout day camp or Cub Scout/Webelos Scout resident camp.

Rank-Specific

Tiger Cubs
Complete one requirement in Achievement 5, "Let's Go Outdoors" (Tiger Cub Handbook) and complete three of the outdoor activities listed below.

Wolf Cub Scouts
Assemble the "Six Essentials for Going Outdoors" (Wolf Handbook, Elective 23b) and discuss their purpose, and complete four of the outdoor activities listed below.

Bear Cub Scouts
Earn the Cub Scout Leave No Trace Award (Bear Handbook, Elective 25h) and compete five of the outdoor activities listed below.

Webelos Scouts
Earn the Outdoorsman Activity Badge (Webelos Handbook) and complete six of the outdoor activities listed below.

Outdoor Activities

With your den, pack, or family:

Participate in a nature hike in your local area. This can be on an organized, marked trail, or just a hike to observe nature in your area.

Participate in an outdoor activity such as a picnic or park fun day.

Explain the buddy system and tell what to do if lost. Explain the importance of cooperation.

Attend a pack overnighter. Be responsible by being prepared for the event.

Complete an outdoor service project in your community.

Complete a nature/conservation project in your area. This project should involve improving, beautifying, or supporting natural habitats. Discuss how this project helped you to respect nature.

Earn the Summertime Pack Award.

Participate in a nature observation activity. Describe or illustrate and display your observations at a den or pack meeting.

Participate in an outdoor aquatic activity. This can be an organized swim meet or just a den or pack swim.

Participate in an outdoor campfire program. Perform in a skit, sing a song, or take part in a ceremony.

Participate in an outdoor sporting event.

Participate in an outdoor Scout's Own or other worship service.

Explore a local city, county, state, or national park. Discuss with your den how a good citizen obeys the park rules.

The award requirements are detailed in the Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award brochure, No. 13-228.

LNT TRAINER COURSE

2012-02-11T13:15:00.012-05:00

LEAVE NO TRACE TRAINER March 30th - April 1st Information Details The principles of Leave No Trace have been recently integrated into many areas of the scouting program . . . from Cub Scouting to second and first class Boy Scout rank advancements, merit badges and many outdoor programs and activities. In addition, a new Boy Scout leadership position has been developed called "Leave No Trace Trainer". To help facilitate these changes, we will be offering the three day Leave No Trace Trainer course for both youth and adults during selected times of the year. The classes will be conducted in the field throughout the day on Saturday and during an overnight backpacking trek to the HSR wilderness area. Upon successful completion of the course, each participant will be registered as a certified LNT Trainer with the National Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics in Boulder, Colorado. LNT Trainers are authorized to teach the official LEAVE NO TRACE AWARENESS program, LNT 101 and also qualify to serve as staff instructors in future Leave No Trace Trainer courses. *PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED*
Dates:	March 30th - April 1st Registration deadline: March 26th
Start Time:	Friday 6 PM
Location:	Horseshoe Scout Reservation Camp John H. Ware III (239 Jubilee Road, Peach Bottom)
Who:	• Pack, Troop and Crew adult leaders.
	• Boy Scouts and Venturers
Program Cost:	$65 per person
Pre-requisites:	All participants must be currently registered in the Boy Scouts of America Adult Leaders: Must have previously completed Introduction to Outdoor Leader Scout Training (IOLST) Boy Scout Youth: Must have achieved the rank of First Class Venturers: No pre-requisites
Course Length:	Three days - Friday evening through Sunday noon
Things to bring:	Backpack Sleeping Bag Backpacking tent * Personal camping gear and equipment appropriate for a backpacking trek and the season * Please contact us if you do not have access to a backpacking tent
Your fees cover:	Meals - Saturday AM through Sunday AM. Please either have dinner before arriving on Friday or you are welcome to bring it with you. All Leave No Trace program and training materials One year registration with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics in Boulder, Colorado as a certified trainer.
Contact Info:	Ray Hayden 717-548-3352
How to sign up:	Class size is limited!!!! Maximum number per class is 10. Register here

“Old School” Pioneering Weekend

2011-12-20T10:32:00.005-05:00

Horseshoe Scout Reservation

April 13, 14 & 15, 2012

A pioneer’s journey begins with your trek in your covered wagon to Camp Horseshoe, along the banks of the creek the Indians called Octoraro. After arriving and looking for favorite sites with names like Lenni Lenape, Octoraro, Dan Beard, Kit Carson, Conestoga, Boonesboro and Trailblazer, you’re ready to greet the great wilderness as your forefathers did. By campfire, blankets, tents and the call of nature.

From there, your journey continues with the hard work of setting up a fine wilderness camp with your troop of travelling pioneers. This camp could include making articles that add some creature comforts to a pioneer’s camp.

From the great wilderness camp, with a walking trek through the evening hours to the great Goodman wilderness barn, the trek continues with the group of pioneers learning about using ropes, block and tackles and rope block and tackles.

From here the great journey continues back to those famous wilderness camp area and night of rest, for we know that the great journey will continue at first light.

As first light approaches, cooking fires are lighted, the smell of a wood cooking fire, the preparations of a meaningful, well cooked breakfast at the start of a day filled with a long journey.

The journey continues with a short walk for the quest of the pioneer skill of making a rope, trestle and ladder building. After a busy morning of making rope, the pioneers trek back to camp for a well cooked lunch and time to make camp living easier by making gadgets using rope, wood and natural materials. As our pioneers finish cleaning up after a hearty lunch the journey continues.

The journey moves to the great field by the bridge crossing the mighty Octoraro River. In this great field is the need to construct towers for alerting pioneers as to the great dangers that lie ahead. Towers to be built using handmade rope, spars and the knowledge of these young pioneers. The towers so strong and tall that signals can be seen for miles from the tops. From here, after the great judging of these fine works of art, the journey continues.

The pioneers head tiredly back to their great camp to enjoy the great chili cook off and a well earned camp dinner. After this great dinner the leaders of the pioneers will be judged as to who is the best chili cook.

With full bellies and a nice campfire, stories will be told of the days adventures. The night is growing old as sleep call these young pioneers, who know that they will be up with first light.

As first light approaches, the pioneers know that they will soon have to pack up their wagons for the trek through the great wilderness and as they are leaving this wonderful area, they know that there must not be a trace that they have been here…….

Just a quick note, this is a troop activity that will upon completion of the requirement allow the boys to earn the pioneering merit badge. This will also allow for completion some of the night required for the camping merit badge and the cooking merit badge.

Friday

6 - 8 PM Checkin, turn in blue cards, set up tents.

8 - 10 PM Group session-work on Requirements 4 & 8

9:30 - 10PM Crackerbarrel

11 PM Lights out

Saturday

7 - 9 AM Breakfast

9 - 11 AM Rope Making, Simple Trestle, 15 foot ladders

11 - 1 PM Lunch at camp sites

1 - 5 PM Build Towers & Camp Gadgets

5 - 7 PM Dinner at campsites

Judging of Projects, Cooking & Iron Chef Dessert

11 PM Lights out

Sunday AM

7 - 9 Breakfast, clean up camps, pack up

9 - 9:30 Complete blue cards

9:30 - 10 Awards ceremony

Bring: Tents, First Aid Kit, Food, Bow Saw, Dutch Ovens

Leave at Home: Propane, charcoal, stoves

Pioneering Weekend Prerequisites

1. Show that you know first aid for injuries or illness that could occur while working on pioneering projects, including minor cuts and abrasions, bruises, rope burns, blisters, splinters, sprains, heat and cold reactions, dehydration, and insect bites or stings.

2. Do the following:

a. Successfully complete Tenderfoot requirements 4a and 4b and First Class requirements 7a, 7b, and 7c. (These are the rope-related requirements.)

b. Tie the following: square knot, bowline, sheepshank, sheet bend, and roundturn with two half hitches.

c. Demonstrate the following: tripod and round lashings.

3. Explain the uses for the back splice, eye splice, and short splice. Using 1/4- or 3/8-inch three-stranded rope, demonstrate how to form each splice.

Supplies for Pioneering Weekend:	Cost
3-20’ spars for triangular tower	$0
20-10’ spars for ladder/tower/triangular tower	$0
16- 6’ spars for cross members & railings	$0
??-4’ spars for gadgets	$0
12-2’ spars for ladder rungs	$0
1500’ box of 3/8” sisal rope (if needed - can be ordered from HSR)	$45
Rope whipping materials	$0
3 - 24” stakes for guy ropes on tower	$0
Sledgehammer to drive stakes	$0
Twine for use in ropemaking machine to make 3-50’ foot guys lines	$0

Pole Ladder

What I refer to as a 'pole' ladder is the more traditional type of ladder. This simply involves choosing two strong spars of the required length and attaching rungs at regular intervals using a square lashing.

One important thing to note is that the two main uprights are not parallel to each other. They should be angled inwards towards each other as you go to the top of the ladder. This will prevent the rungs from slipping downwards.

I suggest that you test the strength of each rung (and lashing) carefully before using the ladder.

Triangular Tower

A Pioneer's Journey Registration

A Pioneer's Journey - Cub Scout Registration Registration

Local Attractions Close to HSR

2011-12-16T17:17:00.008-05:00

Longwood Gardens consists of over 1,077 acres (4.2 km²) of gardens, woodlands, and meadows in Kennett Square,Pennsylvania, United States in the Brandywine Creek Valley. It is one of the premier botanical gardens in the United States and is open to visitors year-round to enjoy exotic plants and horticulture (both indoor and outdoor), events and performances, seasonal and themed attractions, as well as take part in educational lectures, courses and workshops.

Approximately 45 minutes from HSR

http://www.longwoodgardens.org/

Wolf Sanctuary of PA In the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch country, quietly secured on 22 acres of natural woodland, you will find the home of the Speedwell Wolves. For over 20 years the Darlington Family has offered refuge to Wolves who have found themselves without a place in the natural world. It has been over a hundred years since the last wild Wolf was known to exist in Pennsylvania. More...
Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes from HSR

Brandywine Battlefield Historic Site is a historical park that was operated by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, on 50 acres (200,000 m²), near Chadds Ford, Delaware County, Pennsylvania in the United States. It is part of the site of the Battle of Brandywine fought on September 11, 1777, during the American Revolution. The battle was a major victory for the British and enabled them to capture the city of Philadelphia. Brandywine Battlefield Park became a Pennsylvania State Park in 1949 and a National Historic Landmark in 1961.

To the north, another part of the battlefield is maintained by Birmingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania as "Battlefield of the Brandywine Park," or "Sandy Hollow Heritage Park." Much of the afternoon's fighting took place between Birmingham Friends Meetinghouse and Dilworthtown.

Approximately 52 minutes from HSR

http://www.brandywinebattlefield.org/

Valley Forge National Historic Park Of all the places associated with America’s War for Independence, none convey the suffering, sacrifice and ultimate triumph of our nation more than Valley Forge. No battles were fought here; no bayonet charges or artillery bombardments took place. Nonetheless, some 2,000 soldiers died – more Americans than were killed at the battles of Brandywine and Germantown combined. Valley Forge is the story of an army’s epic struggle to survive against terrible odds, hunger, disease and the unrelenting forces of nature. Rows of cannons in Artillery Park; the soldiers’ log huts; and earthen fortifications around the rim of the park are silent reminders of the past.

Approximately 1 hour, 22 minutes from HSR

http://www.visitphilly.com/history/philadelphia/valley-forge-national-historical-park/

Gettysburg Battlefield The Battle of Gettysburg was fought July 1–3, 1863, in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The battle with the largest number of casualties in the American Civil War, it is often described as the war's turning point. Union Maj. Gen. George Gordon Meade's Army of the Potomac defeated attacks by Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia, ending Lee's invasion of the North.

Approximately 1 hour, 57 minutes from HSR

http://www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm

The Strasburg Rail Road is a heritage railroad located near Strasburg, Pennsylvania. It operates excursion trains hauled by steam locomotives in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Across the street lies the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. The Strasburg Rail Road functions as the Museum's link to the Amtrak main line in Paradise, Pennsylvania.

Approx 30 minutes from HSR.

http://www.rrmuseumpa.org/

Philadelphia is the largest city in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the county seat of Philadelphia County, with which it is coterminous. The city is located along the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers. It is the fifth-most-populous city in the United States, with a population of 1,526,006 as of the 2010 U.S. Census. Philadelphia is also the commercial, cultural, and educational center of the Delaware Valley, home to 6 million people and the country's fifth-largest metropolitan area. The Philadelphia metropolitan division consists of five counties in Pennsylvania and has a population of 4,008,994. Popular nicknames for Philadelphia are Philly and The City of Brotherly Love, the latter of which comes from the literal meaning of the city's name in Greek "brotherly love", compounded from philos "loving", andadelphos "brother".

Approximately 1 hour, 29 minutes to downtown Philly from HSR

http://www.visitphilly.com/

Philly's historical attractions

Lancaster County, known as the Garden Spot of America or Pennsylvania Dutch Country, is a county located in the south central part of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in the United States.

Lancaster County is a popular tourist destination, due mostly to the many plain sect residents, known as the Amish or Pennsylvania Dutch. The term Pennsylvania Dutch comes from the earlier use of Dutch to apply to all immigrants from Europe speaking German. They are the descendants of Germans (Deutsch) who immigrated in the 18th and 19th centuries for the freedom of religion offered by William Penn, and were attracted by the rich soil and mild climate of the area.

Approximately 39 minutes to downtown Lancaster

http://www.padutchcountry.com/activities/index.asp

Pa Dutch Country hiking and biking

Plain and Fancy Farm The nine pristine acres that make up Plain & Fancy are surrounded by Amish farmlands and located midway between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse on Route 340, an AAA cultural scenic byway. In Lancaster County, Plain & Fancy Farm is the only place where visitors can find it all, including Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides, The Amish Experience Theater, Country Homestead and Farmland Tours, Sarah Mae's Ice Cream & Soft Pretzels, Bird-in-Hand Junction, the Country Store, gardens and farm animals.

http://www.plainandfancyfarm.com/

Baltimore Inner Harbor is a historic seaport, tourist attraction, and landmark of the City of Baltimore, Maryland, United States. Described by the Urban Land Institute in 2009 as “the model for post-industrial waterfront redevelopment around the World. The Inner Harbor is actually the end of the Northwest Branch of the Patapsco River and includes any water west of a line drawn between the foot of President Street and the American Visionary Art Museum. The name "Inner Harbor" is used not just for the water but for the surrounding area of the city, with approximate street boundaries of President Street to the east, Lombard Street to the north, Greene Street to the west, and Key Highway on the south. The harbor is within walking distance of Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium and has a water taxi that connects the Inner Harbor to Fells Point, Canton, and Fort McHenry.

Museums

Reginald F. Lewis Museum of African-American History and Culture
American Visionary Art Museum
Baltimore Museum of Industry
Geppi's Entertainment Museum (opened September 2006)
Jewish Museum of Maryland at the Lloyd Street Synagogue – one of the oldest synagogues in the United States.
Civil War Museum at the President Street Station
Port Discovery Children's Museum (on the site of the historic Baltimore Fishmarket and the 1988–1989 Fishmarket dance/music complex)
Sports Legends at Camden Yards
Museum of Dentistry

Ships
Vessels on active/reserve status: Baltimore Maritime Museum:
USCGC Taney – last fighting ship still afloat that survived the attack on Pearl Harbor
USS Torsk – Tench-class submarine; last ship to sink enemy vessel in World War II
Lightship Chesapeake
Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse
USS Constellation – last Civil War-era ship still afloat
Vessels on active/reserve status:
USNS Comfort – US Navy hospital ship
SS Wright – US Navy Aviation Logistics Support (roll-on/roll-off) container ship

http://baltimore.org/about-baltimore/inner-harbor

Campmaster Training Course

2011-11-24T19:45:00.011-05:00

What: Campmaster Training Course
Who: Registered adults
When: January 28, 2012

9AM - Noon
Where: HSR Ranger Station
(Camp Ware side)
Cost: Free

Campmasters are members of a team of specially trained, dedicated volunteer scouters with a strong camping and scouting background. During the weekend they can either serve Camp Ware or Camp Horseshoe as an official representative of the Chester County Council and the Horseshoe Scout Reservation. Their goal is to provide support to the units during their stay at the reservation. Chester County Council Campmasters are trained to ensure a safe and positive outdoor experience for the Packs, Troops and Crews that utilize the HSR during the weekend camping season.

Snowshoe Building Workshop

2011-11-18T11:04:00.005-05:00

SNOWSHOE BUILDING WORKSHOP

Have you ever wanted to try your hand at snowshoeing but were put off by the cost of buying a ready-made pair? Well have we got an opportunity for you!!!

This workshop will provide you with an Ojibwa pre-formed snowshoe kit which you will be able to assemble, string and preserve. The full project completion will take two weekends.

NOTE: If you were to purchase these snowshoes already constructed the cost would be over $300 per pair.

Ranger Tom Murphy will also demonstrate building snowshoes from scratch using raw materials by steaming and forming the wood and finally stringing the snowshoes.

To fully construct your snowshoes it will require two Saturdays to complete. The first session of the workshop will take place on January 7th at the Ranger Station on the Camp Ware side of the Horseshoe Scout Reservation starting at 9am (bring your lunch) . . . then just come back on Saturday January 14th to finish them up. The cost per kit is $115 for all of the materials required. The bindings (the part that attaches your foot to the snowshoe) are extra. You can purchase factory made bindings for $40 or we can show you how to make your own. Registration deadline is Dec 16th, 2012 (Due to the lead time in placing the kit orders, we can not issue any refunds after Dec 17th).

For more details, contact Ranger Tom Murphy at 717-548-3352. To sign up for this program, click here.

2012 Science Camp

2011-10-28T02:54:00.003-04:00

Science and Radio Merit Badge Camp