Resource Stewardship Scout Ranger Program

The Resource Stewardship Scout Ranger program engages Scouts in educational programs and volunteer service projects in national park sites to:

• Gain a better understanding of the National Park Service mission and conserving the nation’s natural, cultural and historic resources.
• Explore the national parks.
• Practice good citizenship and kindness.

In recognition of their resource stewardship activities, Scouts are awarded certificates and/or patches for their participation.

The Scout Ranger program is cooperative effort between the National Park Service (NPS) and the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). It is a component of the BSA umbrella initiative Good Turn for America which encourages young people to “Do a Good Turn Daily” (special thoughtful acts of kindness), help other people and participate in community service projects.

A PDF handout highlighting the Scout Ranger program is available to download here.

This NPS/BSA program is a component of the umbrella initiative BSA Good Turn for America. This initiative encourages young people to “Do a Good Turn Daily” (special thoughtful acts of kindness), help other people and participate in community service projects.

Educational Programs and Volunteer Service Projects

Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts are invited to work collaboratively with NPS employees or volunteers to take part in educational program or volunteer service projects at any national park site across the country.

Qualifying organized educational programs:

National park sites have a variety of existing educational and interpretive programs that are available to the general public to enjoy. Scouts are invited to take part in these programs as part of the Scout Ranger program.

• Ranger-guided interpretive tours
• Junior Ranger programs
• Environmental education programs
• Any other official NPS education program

Qualifying volunteer service projects:

Many national park sites have volunteer programs that can offer Scouts an opportunity to assist in a variety of long-term or short-term projects to improve and ensure protection of park resources and facilities. Scouts are encouraged to take part in any sustainable organized project, agreed upon by the NPS, as an appropriate service opportunity that protects and preserves park resources.

Developing new projects:

While existing organized educational programs and volunteer service projects are an excellent way to learn about the NPS, the NPS also invites Scouts to develop their own projects and establish activities in collaboration with NPS employees. Scouts interested in developing their own project must first coordinate their project with a park representative. While there may be some limits to the scale or type of activity, Scouts are encouraged to seek out the opportunities to develop their own activity. Parks have the discretion to decide if the project qualifies for the certificate or patch. 

Click here to learn about How to earn a Certificate or Patch