Conservation Programs and Awards
Conservation and Scouting
The conservation program emphasis is designed to incorporate throughout the Scouting program and activities an awareness and understanding of conservation as wise and intelligent management of natural resources. The development of good citizens is one of Scouting's aims, and citizens need to practice sound environmental living and conservation of natural resources. There is need for an extended program that will encourage young people to
• Look at the entire process of resource use
• Analyze how actions and judgments often create problems
• Understand decision-making processes related to the environment
• Seek out commonsense methods that can be applied at home, in the community, in the state, and in the nation
• Help improve the quality of life
This emphasis is directed toward making all those active in Scouting-youth, adult members, and their families-aware of their responsibility for the future. There is an increasing awareness that Scouting members and other individuals are an integral part of their environment and that their action or inaction affects the quality of life throughout this nation and the world. Personal experience teaches the most lasting lessons. The conservation program emphasis has been developed to create a positive commitment to improving the environment and conserving natural resources through firsthand experiences and “learning by doing.”