|
|
|
Merit Badge Requirements & Worksheets | Look below to see the photos from the Lake Kissimmee backpack trip on 3/13 - 3/14/04
As we began our hike, everything looks innocent enough.
We were following the blue blazes onto the trail.
Soon the Scoutmaster saw smoke and smelled something burning....
We could not believe our eyes when we walked through an area that was subjected to a control burn just two days earlier. In fact, it was a new experience for all of us. We were literally walking through a forest that was still smoldering and in some cases, burning. NOTE: This was a safe hike. There was never any threat or harm encountered. This was a controlled burn and the Rangers were fully aware of our presence and provided full approval for us to hike through this area. In fact, if it was not for us being Scouts, we would not have been allowed to observe this amazing environment. We were lucky to be here to witness nature rebuilding itself. This was truly a memorable trip. WOW!
Some areas were still burning or were just recently burned.
We were honored to have the entire D. family with us. Here, Tom D. could not take the pictures fast enough. That is Robbie D. in the background and Eileen P. is behind him.
We were all amazed.
Check out the lingering smoke in the air.
Interestingly, most of the established trail was untouched by the burn. Mr. D. speculated this was due to the earth's compactness on the trail essentially starving the fire from fuel because it had been ground down. Sounds good to me.
Due to lingering ash, Mrs. P. showed us how to filter the particles using her bandana. What is that motto? Be prepared!
Since we knew this was a dry trail camp going in, we all carried lots of additional water. Here, Brandon S. happily volunteers to give some of his H2Oto others. Thanks Brandon.
With the rain fly over the Old Goat's kitchen, we were ready for the next event at camp.
Robert C., Matt C. and Robert E. have just set up their tents.
This is interesting.
Having a great time at camp!
The 3 R's: Robert, Robbie and Robert.
The signs and blue blazes on the trees marked our way to camp.
The Chief Fireman, Tom D. surveys the Scout's work on the campfire.
Good teamwork is important for everyone. Here, two Roberts show us how it is done.
We often checked our water supplies. Here is the morning collection. Looks pretty good.
Robert C. is doing a great job packing up his gear.
Someone (Robert E.) got a bag of trash stuck way up on a tree limb. Don't ask how. Anyhow, after nearly 60 minutes, the Scouts managed to get it down. ARRGH!
Jake C. has his Troop 210 hat on as well as his T-210 shirt and is ready to hit the trail. Looking good Jake.
Robert E. has his whistle and compass for the navigational challenges ahead. A Scout is prepared!
Looks like Robbie D. is ready to go too.
Bryan H. managed to keep his very white shirt clean for a while...well, not quite long enough though. Ask Mr. Tom D. and he can fill you in.
Policing the campsites before we leave ensures it is cleaner than how we found it. That is very important to the Scoutmaster.
A group photo of all participants, including the Scoutmaster...how did he do that when we were by ourselves at camp...hmmmmm.
Sunday brought perfect weather...check out this line of backpackers heading out of the camp.
Click here for the second album from Lake Kissimmee State Park.
|
