Join Scouting … Join Troop 591!
Requirements
Scouting is open to all boys between the ages of 11 and 17 without regard to race, religion, creed or financial ability. Boys who are 10 years old and have completed the 5th grade or received the Cub Scout Arrow of Light Award may join prior to their 11th birthday.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, joining the Troop is as simple as submitting a Youth Application Form and paying your annual dues! Application forms are available through the Troop. Please see one of the adult leaders during one of our meetings or contact the Scoutmaster at scoutmaster@scouttroop591.org
Troop Meetings are held every Wednesday night from 7:00 to 8:30 when school is in session at St. Mark’s Church on Cold Spring Road in Westford, MA.
Costs
Troop dues are $100 annually, payable in September. A portion of these dues are used to pay the Scout’s National BSA dues and his subscription to Boy’s Life magazine.
In addition to the dues, the Scout is responsible for paying his share of outing expenses. The costs are modest for most overnight camping events – around $20 for the weekend. Some events incur higher costs due to transportation, equipment rental or special event fees.
Summer camp fees typically run around $250 for a week of camping. Troop 591 may elect to attend an out-of-council or high adventure camp where costs may run higher.
Uniform
The Scout is responsible to provide his own uniform consisting of a tan Scout shirt and khaki pants (Troop 591 uses the Switchback pants). The Troop provides the Scout with a Troop neckerchief and rank insignia. Uniforms and other Scouting supplies can be purchased on-line at scoutstuff.org or through the Nashua Vally Council Scout Shop in Lancaster, MA.
From time-to-time the Troop will make Troop T-shirts available for sale to the Scouts. Often these are created to recognize an event or trip. These Troop T-shirts are designated as Class B uniforms and may be worn in place of the official Scout shirt for certain events and outings.
Scout Handbook
Each Scout must have his own personal copy of the Scout Handbook. Not only is the Handbook a valuable reference for learning Scouting skills, it also serves as the Scout’s record of advancement. As the Scout completes requirements toward a rank, a leader or senior Scout will endorse the Scout’s manual to indicate that he met the requirement. Scouts should bring their Handbook to all meetings and outings. The Troop recommends purchasing a Handbook Cover or keeping the Handbook in a Ziploc bag to protect it from damage.
Merit Badge Pamphlets
As Scouts work on Merit Badges, each Scout is encouraged to obtain and read the official Merit Badge Pamphlet on the subject. These pamphlets cover the requirements to earn the badge and give a great deal of valuable information on the subjects they cover.
While the Troop maintains a library that includes Merit Badge Pamphlets, Scouts may find that keeping a personal copy provides a valuable reference and reminder of the skills needed to earn the badge. The pamphlets are $3 each and are available through the Troop or from scoutstuff.org
Outdoor Equipment
Most of our outings take place outdoors and your son should be equipped properly to enjoy these adventures. While it is possible to spend hundreds of dollars on quality outdoor equipment and apparel, if your son is new to camping and hiking you should consider purchasing only the necessities. The Troop will provide some of the equipment needed on outings such as tents, stoves and cook gear. Certain personal items – such as a backpack – can be rented or borrowed until such time as you are certain your son needs his own equipment.
Every Scout is expected to provide certain basic equipment items that will enable him to participate safely in the outdoor program.
- Sleeping Bag – Each Scout should own his own sleeping bag. The bag should be suitable for sleeping in a tent in a variety of weather conditions. This is one of the more critical items for enjoying the outdoors and we recommend purchasing a quality sleeping bag from an outdoor retailer. (See our article on Sleeping Bags for more information on choosing a sleeping bag)
- Sleeping Pad – A sleeping pad is basically a mattress for the tent. The proper pad is small, light-weight and provides a measure of comfort as well as insulation when sleeping on the cold ground.
- Rain Gear – Scouts must be prepared for a variety of conditions when on a camping trip. A proper rain jacket or poncho with a hood is an essential for every trip. This is perhaps one of the more critical items. We may be out on a rainy day without access to shelter and your Scout will need a jacket that will stand up to extended periods of rain.
- Shoes – Proper footgear should be worn at all times when outdoors. A pair of trail shoes or hiking boots are supportive and will keep your feet warm and dry. Sneakers are generally not adequate for camping and hiking activities.
- Mess Kit – Scouts adhere to the Leave No Trace wilderness policy and try to minimize waste on outings. Scouts are required to provide their own “mess kit” consisting of a plate, bowl, cup and utensils on each outing. (Plastic picnic dinnerware works great!)
- Daypack – A small backpack is required for many hikes and outings. It allows the Scout to carry essential gear, water and food while out-of-doors.
See the Gear topic page for more information on outdoor equipment.
Copyright © 2012