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How do I brainstorm ideas for projects or activities in which to participate? Here are some questions to consider that will help you establish ideas for projects or activities:
What information does the park need from me? This person is commonly the volunteer coordinator, a park interpreter, or the youth programs coordinator, so it is suggested you ask for these individuals. If you need further assistance contacting the park, contact the NPS Regional Youth Programs Coordinator in your state. Can this program contribute toward earning the Eagle Award? The Scout Ranger program is not a part of the qualifications for the Eagle Award; however experiences Scouts gain from participating in the Scout Ranger program may contribute toward progress in earning the award. Visit the Boy Scouts Eagle Award webpage for more information on the requirements for earning the Eagle Award. Do I have to do projects at multiple park sites, or can I participate at just one park? You can do whatever combination of hours and park units you would like. Can I participate in the program more than once? Yes. You can of course spend more than five or ten hours participating in an educational program or working on a volunteer service project. However, only one certificate and/or patch will be awarded to a Scout. The NPS is confident you will have so much fun through the experience that you will come back to the park or seek out another park whether you earn an award or not. Why five hours for a certificate and ten hours for a patch? It is important for Scouts to spend some quality time exploring park resources. Five hours is an afternoon at a national park site and ten hours is two afternoons, or a month of volunteering 2 or 3 hours per weekend. The NPS strongly believes that with these set hour requirements, Scouts will come away with not just a certificate or patch, but the reward of discovery and hopefully an interest in something new. How did Scout Ranger come about? The Resource Stewardship Scout Ranger program is a collaboration between the BSA and the NPS under the umbrella Good Turn for America initiative. The nation and the world are increasingly turning to technology which some believe leads to a decrease in children participating in outdoor activities. Youth who participate in outdoor activities that help them expand their horizons will develop new ideas, new perspectives, and an increased appreciation for natural and cultural resource stewardship. The Resource Stewardship Scout Ranger program supports the NPS goal of introducing youth to the outdoors. Beyond that, it is a great opportunity for today's youth to join together, have fun, and make a difference! Why should I be a Scout Ranger? Being a Scout Ranger is fun! You can be outdoors and at the same time discover something new about yourself and your surroundings. There are many different types of career opportunities with the National Park Service like biology, firefighting, education and interpretation that you could explore! It is so important and very rewarding for you to get outside, take in some fresh air, see wildlife, discover culture, and learn your role in protecting our environment. What if I have additional questions about the program? General questions about the Scout Ranger program can be directed to the NPS Regional Youth Coordinator that oversees programs in your state. National Park Service Headquarters Return to main Scout Ranger page
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