This virtual Merit Badge program is designed to provide Scouts the opportunity to continue working on merit badge requirements and to achieve a new merit badge in one month! This virtual program will take place through digital media and will not require an in-person meeting. Scouts will be able to complete merit badge requirements at home with family while practicing social distancing. Scouts who are participating will maintain in contact with the merit badge counselor and present requirements via email. The program will begin on Thursday, April 1 and will conclude on Friday, April 30.

This badge requires active participation in outdoor observation, which can be accomplished in many ways. Scouts should not expect to complete this badge by the end of April if they do not actively put in the work!

By participating in this program, Scouts will have the opportunity to:

• Maintain positive connections to the outdoors.
• Become educated on environmental science topics through research and individual activities.
• Develop better written and verbal communication skills through developing and completing badge requirements to be presented to the instructor.
• Foster knowledge of the working relationships within their local and global environment.

This program is being led by Washington Crossing Environmental Education Specialist and certified Merit Badge Instructor, Matt Truesdale.

Registration is limited! If your Scout is interested in working toward obtaining the Bird Study Merit Badge, please register with Matt Truesdale by email at mtruesdale@pa.gov. Registration is due before 4:00pm on Tuesday, March 30. Digital materials, resources and a workbook will be distributed through email to participants on April 1.

All scouts who register must include a parent or scoutmaster email to comply with BSA Youth Protection policies. Live Zoom/Teams calls will not be required! However, if your scout has questions or concerns, meetings or calls can be scheduled.