Help
I just got the January/February issue of Scouting magazine today. The "What's New" feature on page 12 lists the new merit badges debuting in 2010. The Geocaching (not GPS/GIS) will appear in the second quarter of 2010. We should see the pamphlet in 4-5 months.
Other new ones for 2010: SCUBA (out this month), Inventing (first quarter), Scouting Heritage (also second quarter) and Robotics (due by the end of 2010).
This should add a lot more scouts to the "Get in the Game" effort.
New BSA Geocaching Merit Badge
#2
Posted 01 January 2010 - 05:39 AM
Road Rabbit, on Dec 23 2009, 10:24 PM, said:
...Geocaching (not GPS/GIS) ...
I was surprised at that too.
Unfortunately it doesnt look like the information will be available soon enough to offer it at summer camp. Maybe we'll be able to incorporate some of it into another session or as a free time activity <shrug>
#3
Posted 02 January 2010 - 06:01 AM
WindChill, on Jan 1 2010, 08:39 AM, said:
Road Rabbit, on Dec 23 2009, 10:24 PM, said:
...Geocaching (not GPS/GIS) ...
I was surprised at that too.
Unfortunately it doesnt look like the information will be available soon enough to offer it at summer camp. Maybe we'll be able to incorporate some of it into another session or as a free time activity <shrug>
Depends on how early in the 2nd quarter it becomes available. With the big push on the "Get in the Game" effort, I suspect it might be sooner rather than later.
#4
Posted 03 January 2010 - 06:41 AM
I hope so....Our summer camp director says he really needs the info in Dec/Jan so he knows if he'll be able to offer it so he can put it in the leaders planning guide that comes out in Feb/Mar.
Hopefully I can convince him to list it, at least list it as tentative, to get people thinking about it until the requirements are available.
Hopefully I can convince him to list it, at least list it as tentative, to get people thinking about it until the requirements are available.
#5
Posted 03 January 2010 - 01:34 PM
WindChill, on Jan 3 2010, 06:41 AM, said:
I hope so....Our summer camp director says he really needs the info in Dec/Jan so he knows if he'll be able to offer it so he can put it in the leaders planning guide that comes out in Feb/Mar.
Hopefully I can convince him to list it, at least list it as tentative, to get people thinking about it until the requirements are available.
Hopefully I can convince him to list it, at least list it as tentative, to get people thinking about it until the requirements are available.
Our summer camp is already making murmurings about it. They all know NOTHING of GC except what I've told them and when I became the elad for Get in the Game, they STILL don't GET it. While I am excited of the possibility, I am also concerned that it will be treated as 'just another badge' and that muggles will be teaching and signing off on it. Members of my own troop will get it from me...I have already notified the district MB coordinator to put me in for it.
#6
Posted 07 January 2010 - 01:53 AM
Ok this has my attention. Being an Eagle Scout and still trying to help out my local troops I may be interested in this. Where can I find more information out on this and any more news on when this may take place?
#7
Posted 08 January 2010 - 01:26 PM
cmatter29, on Jan 7 2010, 01:53 AM, said:
Ok this has my attention. Being an Eagle Scout and still trying to help out my local troops I may be interested in this. Where can I find more information out on this and any more news on when this may take place?
Call the boy scout national council and talk to the Boy Scout Division 972-580-2000 is the # for the main switchboard
#8
Posted 09 January 2010 - 09:21 AM
Tatanka49, on Jan 3 2010, 05:34 PM, said:
WindChill, on Jan 3 2010, 06:41 AM, said:
I hope so....Our summer camp director says he really needs the info in Dec/Jan so he knows if he'll be able to offer it so he can put it in the leaders planning guide that comes out in Feb/Mar.
Hopefully I can convince him to list it, at least list it as tentative, to get people thinking about it until the requirements are available.
Hopefully I can convince him to list it, at least list it as tentative, to get people thinking about it until the requirements are available.
Our summer camp is already making murmurings about it. They all know NOTHING of GC except what I've told them and when I became the elad for Get in the Game, they STILL don't GET it. While I am excited of the possibility, I am also concerned that it will be treated as 'just another badge' and that muggles will be teaching and signing off on it. Members of my own troop will get it from me...I have already notified the district MB coordinator to put me in for it.
That's the approach you need to take if you want it done right in your area. Long ago when introducing Orienteering, in the way it is supposed to be done, to a local camp I produced a 5 color Orienteering map of the camp, a daily lesson plan, and one of my already trained scouts as their instructor for the summer. Give your troop a head start now and one of them may get an interesting summer job at camp.
#9
Posted 19 January 2010 - 06:15 PM
I am totally excited for the merit badge, I have already scheduled to teach all about it at my council roundtable, and to offer the merit badge at my councils annual BIG EVENT (a venture/ varsity three day camp)
#10
Posted 10 February 2010 - 09:42 PM
Road Rabbit, on Dec 23 2009, 08:24 PM, said:
I just got the January/February issue of Scouting magazine today. The "What's New" feature on page 12 lists the new merit badges debuting in 2010. The Geocaching (not GPS/GIS) will appear in the second quarter of 2010. We should see the pamphlet in 4-5 months.
Other new ones for 2010: SCUBA (out this month), Inventing (first quarter), Scouting Heritage (also second quarter) and Robotics (due by the end of 2010).
This should add a lot more scouts to the "Get in the Game" effort.
Other new ones for 2010: SCUBA (out this month), Inventing (first quarter), Scouting Heritage (also second quarter) and Robotics (due by the end of 2010).
This should add a lot more scouts to the "Get in the Game" effort.
Geocache/Groundspeak does not have a way to search for caches left by other Scout groups.
That would be fun to bring Scouts out to find interesting stuff left by other Scouts, and then
leave caches as well to later read up on what other Scouts commented. To bring my Tiger Cub
group out in the woods to find a broken McDonalds trinket, or old Cracker Jack prize...might not
be met with much enthusiasm
#11
Posted 11 February 2010 - 10:30 AM
slide4417, on Feb 10 2010, 09:42 PM, said:
Geocache/Groundspeak does not have a way to search for caches left by other Scout groups.
Search geocaching.com for "Treasures of Scouting" or "Cache to Eagle". You will find caches that were left by geo-Scouts as part of the 100th anniversary celebration. Right now, there are not many out there. Hopefully, the number will grow.
#12
Posted 16 February 2010 - 10:20 PM
Wow this is a great idea and I am totally going to by getting my scout council up in Abbotsford BC on top of this! Thanks guys.
#13
Posted 17 February 2010 - 05:47 AM
Will the scout troops be required to plant geocaches? If so you may want to consider maintenance issues. See this related thread: Scout Troop Caches
#14
Posted 17 February 2010 - 08:01 AM
Lone R, on Feb 17 2010, 05:47 AM, said:
Will the scout troops be required to plant geocaches? If so you may want to consider maintenance issues. See this related thread: Scout Troop Caches
Thank you for posting this here - I suggest that every Scout Leader/Council grup who is doing GITG read that thread. It is long, but has valuable insight into what one poster called "recognition bias" (which the Scouts get all the time: hikers leave trash= Hikers are people too, oh well, but if one of them is wearing a Scout t-shirt=All Scouts are bad
). What comes across loud and clear, though is that there is a cadre of experienced cachers (that one day we all hopefully join) who decry the lack of maintenance of caches by groups. Education is key. As a noob I want to charge off and hunt caches, plant caches, etc. But what is not clearly perceived in the Guide to Noobs is to Hold Thy Horses, especially about hiding caches.
So that brings me to a Noob question about hiding caches: Q1 -If you have a cache or series of caches at a Scout Camp (limited access for Summer Camp Courses or visitors), or ones that are private --- how does one list those caches? In other words, do ALL caches have to be permanent (forever) or can they be listed as just being for one year?
Q2- Is there a place other than geocaching.com to list group caches?
#15
Posted 18 February 2010 - 10:28 AM
OK guys hold on here before you pass judgement!!
1. All of you started off as muggles!
2. Boy Scouts are taught to Preserve the outdoors AKA Look up their OUTDOOR CODE
3. Private Boy Scout Camps ARE open to the public, just call the Council who owns it and get permission to go on a hunt
4. The joy of Geocaching is in the hunt NOT the broken Happy Meal toy!
5. All of you have a Troop near by, contact them and volunteer to be their Merit Badge Counciler
(training to be a counciler is just a couple hours!)
6. You all know enough information to throw together a Summer Camp training, so Volunteer ahead of time and tell the Camp Leader you WILL be ready for the requirements! See #5
7. I would rather call it Geocaching not GPS/GIS <==the latter sounds boring
I have been to several Scout Geocaches and found them interesting and super well maintained. Heck even one of them mailed me a patch just for visiting. I, Cubmaster of my Pack, have taken my boys geocaching on three instances, all had no swag, but had a great time finding them. I currently am planning 6 multicaches that are Cub Scout focused and will have them up and running this summer! Just getting kids outdoors allows for magic to happen! I will now step down off my soap box, happy hunting all!!
1. All of you started off as muggles!
2. Boy Scouts are taught to Preserve the outdoors AKA Look up their OUTDOOR CODE
3. Private Boy Scout Camps ARE open to the public, just call the Council who owns it and get permission to go on a hunt
4. The joy of Geocaching is in the hunt NOT the broken Happy Meal toy!
5. All of you have a Troop near by, contact them and volunteer to be their Merit Badge Counciler
(training to be a counciler is just a couple hours!)
6. You all know enough information to throw together a Summer Camp training, so Volunteer ahead of time and tell the Camp Leader you WILL be ready for the requirements! See #5
7. I would rather call it Geocaching not GPS/GIS <==the latter sounds boring
I have been to several Scout Geocaches and found them interesting and super well maintained. Heck even one of them mailed me a patch just for visiting. I, Cubmaster of my Pack, have taken my boys geocaching on three instances, all had no swag, but had a great time finding them. I currently am planning 6 multicaches that are Cub Scout focused and will have them up and running this summer! Just getting kids outdoors allows for magic to happen! I will now step down off my soap box, happy hunting all!!
#16
Posted 18 February 2010 - 12:42 PM
Are the requirements being made now?
Has anyone seen them?
Every Merit Badge has first aid requirements and I will love to see what thay have for Geocaching. After all I'v been with Troop 6 for 9 years
.
Has anyone seen them?
Every Merit Badge has first aid requirements and I will love to see what thay have for Geocaching. After all I'v been with Troop 6 for 9 years
.
#17
Posted 19 February 2010 - 02:49 PM
ecv3, on Feb 18 2010, 12:42 PM, said:
Are the requirements being made now?
Has anyone seen them?
Every Merit Badge has first aid requirements and I will love to see what thay have for Geocaching. After all I'v been with Troop 6 for 9 years .
Has anyone seen them?
Every Merit Badge has first aid requirements and I will love to see what thay have for Geocaching. After all I'v been with Troop 6 for 9 years
.Man.
If it were setting up Geocaches at PBSR and Camp Rotary I would personally donate ammo cans!
#18
Posted 19 February 2010 - 06:43 PM
pyromomma, on Feb 17 2010, 12:01 PM, said:
[.......
So that brings me to a Noob question about hiding caches: Q1 -If you have a cache or series of caches at a Scout Camp (limited access for Summer Camp Courses or visitors), or ones that are private --- how does one list those caches? In other words, do ALL caches have to be permanent (forever) or can they be listed as just being for one year?
Q2- Is there a place other than geocaching.com to list group caches?
So that brings me to a Noob question about hiding caches: Q1 -If you have a cache or series of caches at a Scout Camp (limited access for Summer Camp Courses or visitors), or ones that are private --- how does one list those caches? In other words, do ALL caches have to be permanent (forever) or can they be listed as just being for one year?
Q2- Is there a place other than geocaching.com to list group caches?
To answer your questions....
If the cache is going to be listed on Geocaching.com it must be accessible to the public.
A cache is presumed not to be "temporary" as in a couple months or during a single camp season, some parks do require moving or perhaps removing the cache after a set time of perhaps 2, more likely more, years and not remain there "forever". The sport is relatively young so cache longevity data is not well established.
There are other listing services but it might be lonely there.
#19
Posted 19 February 2010 - 06:48 PM
ChasingPahls, on Feb 18 2010, 02:28 PM, said:
OK guys hold on here before you pass judgement!!
1. All of you started off as muggles!
2. Boy Scouts are taught to Preserve the outdoors AKA Look up their OUTDOOR CODE
3. Private Boy Scout Camps ARE open to the public, just call the Council who owns it and get permission to go on a hunt
4. The joy of Geocaching is in the hunt NOT the broken Happy Meal toy!
5. All of you have a Troop near by, contact them and volunteer to be their Merit Badge Counciler
(training to be a counciler is just a couple hours!)
6. You all know enough information to throw together a Summer Camp training, so Volunteer ahead of time and tell the Camp Leader you WILL be ready for the requirements! See #5
7. I would rather call it Geocaching not GPS/GIS <==the latter sounds boring
I have been to several Scout Geocaches and found them interesting and super well maintained. Heck even one of them mailed me a patch just for visiting. I, Cubmaster of my Pack, have taken my boys geocaching on three instances, all had no swag, but had a great time finding them. I currently am planning 6 multicaches that are Cub Scout focused and will have them up and running this summer! Just getting kids outdoors allows for magic to happen! I will now step down off my soap box, happy hunting all!!
1. All of you started off as muggles!
2. Boy Scouts are taught to Preserve the outdoors AKA Look up their OUTDOOR CODE
3. Private Boy Scout Camps ARE open to the public, just call the Council who owns it and get permission to go on a hunt
4. The joy of Geocaching is in the hunt NOT the broken Happy Meal toy!
5. All of you have a Troop near by, contact them and volunteer to be their Merit Badge Counciler
(training to be a counciler is just a couple hours!)
6. You all know enough information to throw together a Summer Camp training, so Volunteer ahead of time and tell the Camp Leader you WILL be ready for the requirements! See #5
7. I would rather call it Geocaching not GPS/GIS <==the latter sounds boring
I have been to several Scout Geocaches and found them interesting and super well maintained. Heck even one of them mailed me a patch just for visiting. I, Cubmaster of my Pack, have taken my boys geocaching on three instances, all had no swag, but had a great time finding them. I currently am planning 6 multicaches that are Cub Scout focused and will have them up and running this summer! Just getting kids outdoors allows for magic to happen! I will now step down off my soap box, happy hunting all!!
Agree except for part 3. Lots of cachers just load up the GPS and head out. They'll never know they need permission ahead of time. I'll guess it will be tough getting such an arrangement through your local reviewer.
#20
Posted 11 March 2010 - 12:55 PM
Woo Hoo! My DE just forwarded me an email that says
I dont think that it is my place to make the requirements public (at least not yet), so hopefully Scouting.org or USSSP will post them soon. I will say that has a nice range of things that includes:
Quote
Subject: BSA Action Required: Geocaching Merit Badge Final Requirements
This is an official BSA communication.
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
This is an official BSA communication.
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
I dont think that it is my place to make the requirements public (at least not yet), so hopefully Scouting.org or USSSP will post them soon. I will say that has a nice range of things that includes:
- discussion of hiding and seeking etiquette,
- using EDGE to teach GPSr use,
- comparison of GPS vs map/compass,
- discussion and demonstration of UTM,
- a bit of geocaching.com use,
- finding some caches,
- releasing a TB,
- hiding a cache
- some CITO stuff
- hold a small geocaching activity for a youth group
#23
Posted 11 March 2010 - 04:08 PM
My email didn't say anything about not releasing the information. So here they are:
Geocaching Merit Badge Final Requirements
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
*******************************
Geocaching Merit BadgeRevised Requirements 2/24/2010
1. Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in geocaching activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
b. Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in geocaching activities, including cuts, scrapes, snakebite, insect stings, tick bites, exposure to poisonous plants, heat and cold reactions (sunburn, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, hypothermia), and dehydration.
c. Discuss how to properly plan an activity that uses GPS, including using the buddy system, sharing your plan with others, and considering the weather, route, and proper attire.
2. Discuss the following with your counselor:
a. Why you should never bury a cache.
b. How to use proper geocaching etiquette when hiding or seeking a cache, and how to properly hide a geocaches.
c. The principles of Leave No Trace as they apply to geocaching
3. Explain the following terms used in geocaching: waypoint, log, cache, accuracy, difficulty and terrain ratings, attributes, trackable. Choose five additional terms to explain to your counselor.
4. Explain how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works. Then, using Scoutings Teaching EDGE, demonstrate the use of a GPS unit to your counselor. Include marking and editing a waypoint, changing field functions, and changing the coordinate system in the unit.
5. Do the following:
a. Show that you know how to use a map and compass and explain why this is important for geocaching.
b. Explain the similarities and differences between GPS navigation and standard map reading skills and describe the benefits of each.
c. Explain the UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) system and how it differs from the latitude/longitude system used for public geocaches.
d. Show how to plot a UTM waypoint on a map. Compare the accuracy to that found with a GPS unit.
6. Describe the four steps to finding your first cache to your counselor. Then mark and edit a waypoint.
7. With your parents permission*, go to www.geocaching.com. Type in your zip code to locate public geocaches in your area. Print out information about three of those geocaches and share this with your counselor.
*To fulfill this requirement, you will need to set up a free user account with www.geocaching.com. Ask your parent for permission and help before you do so.
8. Do ONE of the following:
a. If a Cache to Eagle series exists in your council, visit at least three of the 12 locations. Describe the projects that each cache you visit highlights, and explain how the Cache to Eagle program helps share our Scouting service with the public.
b. Create a Scouting-related travel bug that promotes one of the values of Scouting. "Release" your travel bug into a public geocache and, with your parents permission, monitor its progress at www.geocaching.com for 30 days. Keep a log, and share this with your counselor at the end of the 30-day period.
c. Set up and hide a public geocache, following all the www.geocaching.com guidelines. With your parents permission, follow the logs online for 30 days and share them with your counselor.
d. Explain what Cache In Trash Out (CITO) means, and describe how you have practiced CITO at public geocaches or at a CITO event. Then, either create CITO containers to leave at public caches, or host a CITO event for your unit or for the public.
9. Plan a geohunt for a youth group such as your troop or a neighboring pack, at school, or your place of worship. Choose a theme, set up a course with at least four waypoints, teach the players how to use a GPS unit, and play the game. Tell your counselor about your experience, and share the materials you used and developed for this event.
I used to be an Owl, but I'll always an Eagle
Geocaching Merit Badge Final Requirements
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
*******************************
Geocaching Merit BadgeRevised Requirements 2/24/2010
1. Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in geocaching activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
b. Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in geocaching activities, including cuts, scrapes, snakebite, insect stings, tick bites, exposure to poisonous plants, heat and cold reactions (sunburn, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, hypothermia), and dehydration.
c. Discuss how to properly plan an activity that uses GPS, including using the buddy system, sharing your plan with others, and considering the weather, route, and proper attire.
2. Discuss the following with your counselor:
a. Why you should never bury a cache.
b. How to use proper geocaching etiquette when hiding or seeking a cache, and how to properly hide a geocaches.
c. The principles of Leave No Trace as they apply to geocaching
3. Explain the following terms used in geocaching: waypoint, log, cache, accuracy, difficulty and terrain ratings, attributes, trackable. Choose five additional terms to explain to your counselor.
4. Explain how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works. Then, using Scoutings Teaching EDGE, demonstrate the use of a GPS unit to your counselor. Include marking and editing a waypoint, changing field functions, and changing the coordinate system in the unit.
5. Do the following:
a. Show that you know how to use a map and compass and explain why this is important for geocaching.
b. Explain the similarities and differences between GPS navigation and standard map reading skills and describe the benefits of each.
c. Explain the UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) system and how it differs from the latitude/longitude system used for public geocaches.
d. Show how to plot a UTM waypoint on a map. Compare the accuracy to that found with a GPS unit.
6. Describe the four steps to finding your first cache to your counselor. Then mark and edit a waypoint.
7. With your parents permission*, go to www.geocaching.com. Type in your zip code to locate public geocaches in your area. Print out information about three of those geocaches and share this with your counselor.
*To fulfill this requirement, you will need to set up a free user account with www.geocaching.com. Ask your parent for permission and help before you do so.
8. Do ONE of the following:
a. If a Cache to Eagle series exists in your council, visit at least three of the 12 locations. Describe the projects that each cache you visit highlights, and explain how the Cache to Eagle program helps share our Scouting service with the public.
b. Create a Scouting-related travel bug that promotes one of the values of Scouting. "Release" your travel bug into a public geocache and, with your parents permission, monitor its progress at www.geocaching.com for 30 days. Keep a log, and share this with your counselor at the end of the 30-day period.
c. Set up and hide a public geocache, following all the www.geocaching.com guidelines. With your parents permission, follow the logs online for 30 days and share them with your counselor.
d. Explain what Cache In Trash Out (CITO) means, and describe how you have practiced CITO at public geocaches or at a CITO event. Then, either create CITO containers to leave at public caches, or host a CITO event for your unit or for the public.
9. Plan a geohunt for a youth group such as your troop or a neighboring pack, at school, or your place of worship. Choose a theme, set up a course with at least four waypoints, teach the players how to use a GPS unit, and play the game. Tell your counselor about your experience, and share the materials you used and developed for this event.
I used to be an Owl, but I'll always an Eagle
#24
Posted 12 March 2010 - 06:32 AM
PomeradoEagle, on Mar 11 2010, 08:08 PM, said:
My email didn't say anything about not releasing the information. So here they are:
Geocaching Merit Badge Final Requirements
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
*******************************
Geocaching Merit BadgeRevised Requirements 2/24/2010
1. Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in geocaching activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
b. Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in geocaching activities, including cuts, scrapes, snakebite, insect stings, tick bites, exposure to poisonous plants, heat and cold reactions (sunburn, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, hypothermia), and dehydration.
c. Discuss how to properly plan an activity that uses GPS, including using the buddy system, sharing your plan with others, and considering the weather, route, and proper attire.
2. Discuss the following with your counselor:
a. Why you should never bury a cache.
b. How to use proper geocaching etiquette when hiding or seeking a cache, and how to properly hide a geocaches.
c. The principles of Leave No Trace as they apply to geocaching
3. Explain the following terms used in geocaching: waypoint, log, cache, accuracy, difficulty and terrain ratings, attributes, trackable. Choose five additional terms to explain to your counselor.
4. Explain how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works. Then, using Scoutings Teaching EDGE, demonstrate the use of a GPS unit to your counselor. Include marking and editing a waypoint, changing field functions, and changing the coordinate system in the unit.
5. Do the following:
a. Show that you know how to use a map and compass and explain why this is important for geocaching.
b. Explain the similarities and differences between GPS navigation and standard map reading skills and describe the benefits of each.
c. Explain the UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) system and how it differs from the latitude/longitude system used for public geocaches.
d. Show how to plot a UTM waypoint on a map. Compare the accuracy to that found with a GPS unit.
6. Describe the four steps to finding your first cache to your counselor. Then mark and edit a waypoint.
7. With your parents permission*, go to www.geocaching.com. Type in your zip code to locate public geocaches in your area. Print out information about three of those geocaches and share this with your counselor.
*To fulfill this requirement, you will need to set up a free user account with www.geocaching.com. Ask your parent for permission and help before you do so.
8. Do ONE of the following:
a. If a Cache to Eagle series exists in your council, visit at least three of the 12 locations. Describe the projects that each cache you visit highlights, and explain how the Cache to Eagle program helps share our Scouting service with the public.
b. Create a Scouting-related travel bug that promotes one of the values of Scouting. "Release" your travel bug into a public geocache and, with your parents permission, monitor its progress at www.geocaching.com for 30 days. Keep a log, and share this with your counselor at the end of the 30-day period.
c. Set up and hide a public geocache, following all the www.geocaching.com guidelines. With your parents permission, follow the logs online for 30 days and share them with your counselor.
d. Explain what Cache In Trash Out (CITO) means, and describe how you have practiced CITO at public geocaches or at a CITO event. Then, either create CITO containers to leave at public caches, or host a CITO event for your unit or for the public.
9. Plan a geohunt for a youth group such as your troop or a neighboring pack, at school, or your place of worship. Choose a theme, set up a course with at least four waypoints, teach the players how to use a GPS unit, and play the game. Tell your counselor about your experience, and share the materials you used and developed for this event.
I used to be an Owl, but I'll always an Eagle
Geocaching Merit Badge Final Requirements
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
*******************************
Geocaching Merit BadgeRevised Requirements 2/24/2010
1. Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in geocaching activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
b. Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in geocaching activities, including cuts, scrapes, snakebite, insect stings, tick bites, exposure to poisonous plants, heat and cold reactions (sunburn, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, hypothermia), and dehydration.
c. Discuss how to properly plan an activity that uses GPS, including using the buddy system, sharing your plan with others, and considering the weather, route, and proper attire.
2. Discuss the following with your counselor:
a. Why you should never bury a cache.
b. How to use proper geocaching etiquette when hiding or seeking a cache, and how to properly hide a geocaches.
c. The principles of Leave No Trace as they apply to geocaching
3. Explain the following terms used in geocaching: waypoint, log, cache, accuracy, difficulty and terrain ratings, attributes, trackable. Choose five additional terms to explain to your counselor.
4. Explain how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works. Then, using Scoutings Teaching EDGE, demonstrate the use of a GPS unit to your counselor. Include marking and editing a waypoint, changing field functions, and changing the coordinate system in the unit.
5. Do the following:
a. Show that you know how to use a map and compass and explain why this is important for geocaching.
b. Explain the similarities and differences between GPS navigation and standard map reading skills and describe the benefits of each.
c. Explain the UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) system and how it differs from the latitude/longitude system used for public geocaches.
d. Show how to plot a UTM waypoint on a map. Compare the accuracy to that found with a GPS unit.
6. Describe the four steps to finding your first cache to your counselor. Then mark and edit a waypoint.
7. With your parents permission*, go to www.geocaching.com. Type in your zip code to locate public geocaches in your area. Print out information about three of those geocaches and share this with your counselor.
*To fulfill this requirement, you will need to set up a free user account with www.geocaching.com. Ask your parent for permission and help before you do so.
8. Do ONE of the following:
a. If a Cache to Eagle series exists in your council, visit at least three of the 12 locations. Describe the projects that each cache you visit highlights, and explain how the Cache to Eagle program helps share our Scouting service with the public.
b. Create a Scouting-related travel bug that promotes one of the values of Scouting. "Release" your travel bug into a public geocache and, with your parents permission, monitor its progress at www.geocaching.com for 30 days. Keep a log, and share this with your counselor at the end of the 30-day period.
c. Set up and hide a public geocache, following all the www.geocaching.com guidelines. With your parents permission, follow the logs online for 30 days and share them with your counselor.
d. Explain what Cache In Trash Out (CITO) means, and describe how you have practiced CITO at public geocaches or at a CITO event. Then, either create CITO containers to leave at public caches, or host a CITO event for your unit or for the public.
9. Plan a geohunt for a youth group such as your troop or a neighboring pack, at school, or your place of worship. Choose a theme, set up a course with at least four waypoints, teach the players how to use a GPS unit, and play the game. Tell your counselor about your experience, and share the materials you used and developed for this event.
I used to be an Owl, but I'll always an Eagle
Looks OK, but I'd strongly recommend that the concept of maintaining the cache set out in requirement 8c extend way beyond the 30 day monitoring period. Otherwise BSA will not be well received by many existing geocachers.
#25
Posted 12 March 2010 - 10:39 PM
Sounds like there's going to be ALOT of geocaches set out JUST for this Merit Badge. Should we(as a Community) have a consistent name for these caches(i.e. GCMB - Troop XXXX #1)
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
The Steaks
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
The Steaks
#26
Posted 12 March 2010 - 10:43 PM
edscott, on Mar 12 2010, 06:32 AM, said:
PomeradoEagle, on Mar 11 2010, 08:08 PM, said:
My email didn't say anything about not releasing the information. So here they are:
Geocaching Merit Badge Final Requirements
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
*******************************
Geocaching Merit BadgeRevised Requirements 2/24/2010
1. Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in geocaching activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
b. Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in geocaching activities, including cuts, scrapes, snakebite, insect stings, tick bites, exposure to poisonous plants, heat and cold reactions (sunburn, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, hypothermia), and dehydration.
c. Discuss how to properly plan an activity that uses GPS, including using the buddy system, sharing your plan with others, and considering the weather, route, and proper attire.
2. Discuss the following with your counselor:
a. Why you should never bury a cache.
b. How to use proper geocaching etiquette when hiding or seeking a cache, and how to properly hide a geocaches.
c. The principles of Leave No Trace as they apply to geocaching
3. Explain the following terms used in geocaching: waypoint, log, cache, accuracy, difficulty and terrain ratings, attributes, trackable. Choose five additional terms to explain to your counselor.
4. Explain how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works. Then, using Scoutings Teaching EDGE, demonstrate the use of a GPS unit to your counselor. Include marking and editing a waypoint, changing field functions, and changing the coordinate system in the unit.
5. Do the following:
a. Show that you know how to use a map and compass and explain why this is important for geocaching.
b. Explain the similarities and differences between GPS navigation and standard map reading skills and describe the benefits of each.
c. Explain the UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) system and how it differs from the latitude/longitude system used for public geocaches.
d. Show how to plot a UTM waypoint on a map. Compare the accuracy to that found with a GPS unit.
6. Describe the four steps to finding your first cache to your counselor. Then mark and edit a waypoint.
7. With your parents permission*, go to www.geocaching.com. Type in your zip code to locate public geocaches in your area. Print out information about three of those geocaches and share this with your counselor.
*To fulfill this requirement, you will need to set up a free user account with www.geocaching.com. Ask your parent for permission and help before you do so.
8. Do ONE of the following:
a. If a Cache to Eagle series exists in your council, visit at least three of the 12 locations. Describe the projects that each cache you visit highlights, and explain how the Cache to Eagle program helps share our Scouting service with the public.
b. Create a Scouting-related travel bug that promotes one of the values of Scouting. "Release" your travel bug into a public geocache and, with your parents permission, monitor its progress at www.geocaching.com for 30 days. Keep a log, and share this with your counselor at the end of the 30-day period.
c. Set up and hide a public geocache, following all the www.geocaching.com guidelines. With your parents permission, follow the logs online for 30 days and share them with your counselor.
d. Explain what Cache In Trash Out (CITO) means, and describe how you have practiced CITO at public geocaches or at a CITO event. Then, either create CITO containers to leave at public caches, or host a CITO event for your unit or for the public.
9. Plan a geohunt for a youth group such as your troop or a neighboring pack, at school, or your place of worship. Choose a theme, set up a course with at least four waypoints, teach the players how to use a GPS unit, and play the game. Tell your counselor about your experience, and share the materials you used and developed for this event.
I used to be an Owl, but I'll always an Eagle
Geocaching Merit Badge Final Requirements
We are pleased to release the attached, final requirements for the Geocaching Merit Badge. This merit badge is a natural extension of the navigational components of Boy Scout rank advancements and offers the opportunity for Scouts to learn the latest in digital tools to extend that knowledge in a fun, active outdoor experience.
The merit badge emblem and pamphlet are still under development. We will update you when those items are finalized and we have a handle on when they are anticipated to be in local council service centers. Once we can see that timing more clearly, we will establish the earn date so advancement can be entered.
*******************************
Geocaching Merit BadgeRevised Requirements 2/24/2010
1. Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in geocaching activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
b. Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in geocaching activities, including cuts, scrapes, snakebite, insect stings, tick bites, exposure to poisonous plants, heat and cold reactions (sunburn, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, hypothermia), and dehydration.
c. Discuss how to properly plan an activity that uses GPS, including using the buddy system, sharing your plan with others, and considering the weather, route, and proper attire.
2. Discuss the following with your counselor:
a. Why you should never bury a cache.
b. How to use proper geocaching etiquette when hiding or seeking a cache, and how to properly hide a geocaches.
c. The principles of Leave No Trace as they apply to geocaching
3. Explain the following terms used in geocaching: waypoint, log, cache, accuracy, difficulty and terrain ratings, attributes, trackable. Choose five additional terms to explain to your counselor.
4. Explain how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works. Then, using Scoutings Teaching EDGE, demonstrate the use of a GPS unit to your counselor. Include marking and editing a waypoint, changing field functions, and changing the coordinate system in the unit.
5. Do the following:
a. Show that you know how to use a map and compass and explain why this is important for geocaching.
b. Explain the similarities and differences between GPS navigation and standard map reading skills and describe the benefits of each.
c. Explain the UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) system and how it differs from the latitude/longitude system used for public geocaches.
d. Show how to plot a UTM waypoint on a map. Compare the accuracy to that found with a GPS unit.
6. Describe the four steps to finding your first cache to your counselor. Then mark and edit a waypoint.
7. With your parents permission*, go to www.geocaching.com. Type in your zip code to locate public geocaches in your area. Print out information about three of those geocaches and share this with your counselor.
*To fulfill this requirement, you will need to set up a free user account with www.geocaching.com. Ask your parent for permission and help before you do so.
8. Do ONE of the following:
a. If a Cache to Eagle series exists in your council, visit at least three of the 12 locations. Describe the projects that each cache you visit highlights, and explain how the Cache to Eagle program helps share our Scouting service with the public.
b. Create a Scouting-related travel bug that promotes one of the values of Scouting. "Release" your travel bug into a public geocache and, with your parents permission, monitor its progress at www.geocaching.com for 30 days. Keep a log, and share this with your counselor at the end of the 30-day period.
c. Set up and hide a public geocache, following all the www.geocaching.com guidelines. With your parents permission, follow the logs online for 30 days and share them with your counselor.
d. Explain what Cache In Trash Out (CITO) means, and describe how you have practiced CITO at public geocaches or at a CITO event. Then, either create CITO containers to leave at public caches, or host a CITO event for your unit or for the public.
9. Plan a geohunt for a youth group such as your troop or a neighboring pack, at school, or your place of worship. Choose a theme, set up a course with at least four waypoints, teach the players how to use a GPS unit, and play the game. Tell your counselor about your experience, and share the materials you used and developed for this event.
I used to be an Owl, but I'll always an Eagle
Looks OK, but I'd strongly recommend that the concept of maintaining the cache set out in requirement 8c extend way beyond the 30 day monitoring period. Otherwise BSA will not be well received by many existing geocachers.
Does this mean that we can start teaching the MB now?? or do we have to wait for them to get the fancy book out?
The Steaks
#27
Posted 13 March 2010 - 07:13 AM
eagsc7, on Mar 12 2010, 10:39 PM, said:
Sounds like there's going to be ALOT of geocaches set out JUST for this Merit Badge. Should we(as a Community) have a consistent name for these caches(i.e. GCMB - Troop XXXX #1)
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
Great ideas! Anyone know of a way to get these ideas to the folks writing the requirements/MB Book?
(Noob q? Is Mx=Maintain?)
#28
Posted 14 March 2010 - 07:12 PM
pyromomma, on Mar 13 2010, 11:13 AM, said:
eagsc7, on Mar 12 2010, 10:39 PM, said:
Sounds like there's going to be ALOT of geocaches set out JUST for this Merit Badge. Should we(as a Community) have a consistent name for these caches(i.e. GCMB - Troop XXXX #1)
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
Great ideas! Anyone know of a way to get these ideas to the folks writing the requirements/MB Book?
(Noob q? Is Mx=Maintain?)
Based on my past experience it is a loooooong process. If the merit badge book has already gone to press nothing will happen until they sell out all the existing booklets. If they don't get it right the first time I'd guess 5 years if there is a good effort to fix it, more if there isn't.
#29
Posted 14 March 2010 - 07:16 PM
eagsc7, on Mar 13 2010, 02:43 AM, said:
Does this mean that we can start teaching the MB now?? or do we have to wait for them to get the fancy book out?
The Steaks
You can teach it anytime.. but someone needs to register as the official MB counsellor to approve the badge for the scout.
Download this form
This post has been edited by edscott: 14 March 2010 - 07:18 PM
#30
Posted 15 March 2010 - 05:38 AM
I was disappointed to see that the MB is Groundspeak-specific and not a general geocaching badge. Without naming them, there are other sites dedicated to publishing geocaches and it's a shame that BSA didn't leave the MB open to be worked through any of these.
#31
Posted 15 March 2010 - 09:24 AM
I agree it would have been nice to use wording such as "using a listing site of your, or your counselors choice...", it should come as no surprise given the partnership with gc.com for the Get In The Game! Geocaching anniversary activities.
#32
Posted 15 March 2010 - 09:35 AM
WindChill, on Mar 15 2010, 01:24 PM, said:
I agree it would have been nice to use wording such as "using a listing site of your, or your counselors choice...", it should come as no surprise given the partnership with gc.com for the Get In The Game! Geocaching anniversary activities.
True, I'm just not sure there are any other merit badges that require the use of a particular commercial entity. I'm not sure that a merit badge that solicits on the part of a perticular company is in the spirit of scouting.
This post has been edited by DudleyGrunt: 16 March 2010 - 04:19 AM
#33
Posted 20 March 2010 - 09:54 PM
edscott, on Mar 14 2010, 07:12 PM, said:
pyromomma, on Mar 13 2010, 11:13 AM, said:
eagsc7, on Mar 12 2010, 10:39 PM, said:
Sounds like there's going to be ALOT of geocaches set out JUST for this Merit Badge. Should we(as a Community) have a consistent name for these caches(i.e. GCMB - Troop XXXX #1)
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
Also, I'll Highly recommend that the counselor put these caches on their Watch list, and assist the scout in the proper Mx after he has earned the badge. If at any point, the scout does NOT want to Mx the cache, the scouter should be able to ask the scout to send him an adoption request, so that the scout is not burdened with the ongoing responsibility of the cache Mx... or Archive the cache.
Great ideas! Anyone know of a way to get these ideas to the folks writing the requirements/MB Book?
(Noob q? Is Mx=Maintain?)
Based on my past experience it is a loooooong process. If the merit badge book has already gone to press nothing will happen until they sell out all the existing booklets. If they don't get it right the first time I'd guess 5 years if there is a good effort to fix it, more if there isn't.
Yes, Mx is Maintenance. Used it since in the AF...that's Air Force.
I would assume that the books have already gone to print, but what better area to 'Post' the better ideas that may or may not have gotten thought of in the Pamphlet making process... I wonder if there's a pic of Moun10Bike or Jeremy in there...
The Steaks
#34
Posted 22 March 2010 - 02:08 PM
eagsc7, on Mar 21 2010, 01:54 AM, said:
I would assume that the books have already gone to print, but what better area to 'Post' the better ideas that may or may not have gotten thought of in the Pamphlet making process... I wonder if there's a pic of Moun10Bike or Jeremy in there...
The Steaks
What is written here will have zero direct impact. Someone at the top of the food chain will need to make some good contacts then camp in Dallas for a few months.. or maybe longer.. and work them through the editing that needs to be done.
#35
Posted 22 March 2010 - 08:01 PM
edscott, on Mar 22 2010, 02:08 PM, said:
eagsc7, on Mar 21 2010, 01:54 AM, said:
I would assume that the books have already gone to print, but what better area to 'Post' the better ideas that may or may not have gotten thought of in the Pamphlet making process... I wonder if there's a pic of Moun10Bike or Jeremy in there...
The Steaks
What is written here will have zero direct impact. Someone at the top of the food chain will need to make some good contacts then camp in Dallas for a few months.. or maybe longer.. and work them through the editing that needs to be done.
You are right that to assist in changes to the actual pamphlet someone needs to go thru the edit request with BSA, BUT as a Merit Badge Counselor I would want to know what other counselors have found useful.
I do Also realize that not all cachers read the forums*or realize they're here...*, But I would really like TPB to Pinn this topic, and once the MB is released to include a link to this forum for ALL geocachers to know about.
The Steaks
#36
Posted 01 April 2010 - 03:57 PM
I am an Eagle scout and my brother, who is also an Eagle scout, has worked out at the local BSA camp for the past 6 years. Last week there were 5 "get into the game" geocaches published and i have actually been impressed with the placings. So far i have only seen regular sized caches (no micros). The troop that i used to be in has a venture crew that goes caching every so weeks. They dont have a GPS but are able to get a good idea using google/bing maps before they head out. I am interested to see how this merit badge turns out, and i have already been asked by my old troop to become a counselor for it.
#37
Posted 02 April 2010 - 05:08 AM
Quote
Looks OK, but I'd strongly recommend that the concept of maintaining the cache set out in requirement 8c extend way beyond the 30 day monitoring period. Otherwise BSA will not be well received by many existing geocachers.
Yes, that's exactly what caught my eye. I do understand that the 30 day monitoring period is for reporting to counselor, but I suspect that it will also mark the end of some (many?) Scouts involvement with their hide. Unless there is specific reference to continuing to maintain and monitor the cache for the 3 month minimum (cache permanence) then to remove cache and archive listing.
There's already a Girl Scout badge with placing a cache (or letterbox) as one of the options. They neither require that it be published, nor name any particular listing service. I like this better then what the BSA has done.
#38
Posted 13 April 2010 - 04:48 AM
Just saw another update to the "final" requirements:
http://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2010/04/o...s-released.html
Requirement 7 now includes finding one of the caches you printed off.
And requirement 8c now says :
I like the new wording on the guidelines "in the Geocaching merit bade pamphlet" instead of the geocaching.com guidelines. I also like the maintenance plan and the "personally responsible" part. Hopefully the MB pamphlet will provide the information, and the councilors will provide the proper guidance, to help ensure the caches are not just abandoned after the three months.
http://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2010/04/o...s-released.html
Requirement 7 now includes finding one of the caches you printed off.
And requirement 8c now says :
Quote
Set up and hide a public geocache, following the guidelines in the Geocaching merit badge pamphlet. Before doing so, share with your counselor a six-month maintenance plan for the geocache where you are personally responsible for the first three months. After setting up the geocache, with your parents permission, follow the logs online for 30 days and share them with your counselor.
I like the new wording on the guidelines "in the Geocaching merit bade pamphlet" instead of the geocaching.com guidelines. I also like the maintenance plan and the "personally responsible" part. Hopefully the MB pamphlet will provide the information, and the councilors will provide the proper guidance, to help ensure the caches are not just abandoned after the three months.
#39
Posted 13 April 2010 - 05:55 AM
Those are good changes. As an ASM for my son's troop, I am planning on being a MB counselor this badge and would probably either adopt the caches from the scout when they are no longer interested in them or see that they were archived. However, I assume not all counselors will be "serious / veteran" geocachers and may not take as much of a personal stake in these caches. At least GS does have good processes for getting caches archived when they've been abandoned, put hopefully, it won't be too much of a problem.
#40
Posted 04 June 2010 - 03:43 AM
As a new GC MB counselor, I'm planning Geocaching outings for our Troop for this summer, and would like to keep to the MB guidelines so that they can get credit. I'm OK with all the requirements except for #6 - Describe the four steps to finding your first cache ...
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
#41
Posted 04 June 2010 - 10:56 AM
akern.geo, on Jun 4 2010, 07:43 AM, said:
As a new GC MB counselor, I'm planning Geocaching outings for our Troop for this summer, and would like to keep to the MB guidelines so that they can get credit. I'm OK with all the requirements except for #6 - Describe the four steps to finding your first cache ...
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
I'm sure book will list 4.
Maybe...
1. Search for caches in your area.
2. Identify the cache you wish to find.
3. Navigate to the geocache site (parking / trailhead).
4. Follow GPS to geocache.
#42
Posted 06 June 2010 - 06:48 PM
DudleyGrunt, on Jun 4 2010, 10:56 AM, said:
akern.geo, on Jun 4 2010, 07:43 AM, said:
As a new GC MB counselor, I'm planning Geocaching outings for our Troop for this summer, and would like to keep to the MB guidelines so that they can get credit. I'm OK with all the requirements except for #6 - Describe the four steps to finding your first cache ...
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
I'm sure book will list 4.
Maybe...
1. Search for caches in your area.
2. Identify the cache you wish to find.
3. Navigate to the geocache site (parking / trailhead).
4. Follow GPS to geocache.
This is a Boy Scouting merit badge. I'm expecting the requirements to follow similar requirements to other outdoor badges -- like Hiking's #4 - Make a written plan for a 10-mile hike, including map routes, a clothing and equipment list, and a list of items for a trail lunch -- where they ask for proper prep & planning. Hope those GC MB books show up soon!
#43
Posted 08 June 2010 - 10:28 AM
Stopped by the Scout Store today and the GC books are in, and sold out. I'm now on the wait list. Will have it in hand soon, I hope! 
#44
Posted 09 June 2010 - 05:08 AM
Woo Hoo, thanks for the heads up akern.geo. I just checked with our shop. They dont have any yet but should have them in a few days.
#45
Posted 09 June 2010 - 12:57 PM
akern.geo, on Jun 6 2010, 06:48 PM, said:
DudleyGrunt, on Jun 4 2010, 10:56 AM, said:
akern.geo, on Jun 4 2010, 07:43 AM, said:
As a new GC MB counselor, I'm planning Geocaching outings for our Troop for this summer, and would like to keep to the MB guidelines so that they can get credit. I'm OK with all the requirements except for #6 - Describe the four steps to finding your first cache ...
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
I can't figure which are the 4. Am I overlooking the obvious?
I'm sure book will list 4.
Maybe...
1. Search for caches in your area.
2. Identify the cache you wish to find.
3. Navigate to the geocache site (parking / trailhead).
4. Follow GPS to geocache.
This is a Boy Scouting merit badge. I'm expecting the requirements to follow similar requirements to other outdoor badges -- like Hiking's #4 - Make a written plan for a 10-mile hike, including map routes, a clothing and equipment list, and a list of items for a trail lunch -- where they ask for proper prep & planning. Hope those GC MB books show up soon!
I may have stumbled on the the answer to my own question. Was reviewing "How to Get Started" on GC.com and found 4 numbered steps.
http://www.geocachin...ut/finding.aspx
Goes to show that it's always good to go back and review, no matter how much you "know" and there's no point in re-inventing the wheel.
Finding your First Geocache
Step 1 Research
Step 2 Safety Tips
Step 3 The Hunt
Step 4 The Actual Find
#46
Posted 15 June 2010 - 11:40 AM
Our Troop is setting up a geocaching event (NJ) for Sat Sept 4. If anyone is interested in assisting (introduce a scout to geocaching) - please contact me or register via www.njtroop83.org/geocaching
#47
Posted 22 June 2010 - 08:57 AM
Has anyone actually seen a Geocaching merit badge pamphlet? Or the badge itself? Please post an image if you have.
#48
Posted 23 June 2010 - 04:02 AM
We were told at camp that the actual badges were not available until the end of the year.
#50
Posted 04 July 2010 - 04:06 PM
If anyone has seen the actual pamphlet (unavailable in our council store), what ARE the 4 steps as listed in the merit badge book for requirement # 6. Are they what was posted previously?
IE:
Finding your First Geocache
Step 1 Research
Step 2 Safety Tips
Step 3 The Hunt
Step 4 The Actual Find
Thanks,
Cacheola Crew Mom
IE:
Finding your First Geocache
Step 1 Research
Step 2 Safety Tips
Step 3 The Hunt
Step 4 The Actual Find
Thanks,
Cacheola Crew Mom
