S o u t h e r n S i e r r a C o u n c i l

Transcription

1 L E A D E R S G U I D E S o u t h e r n S i e r r a C o u n c i l 2417 M Street, Bakersfield, CA

2 The Southern Sierra Council Boy Scouts of America does not discriminate against any child or adult because of race, color, national origin, age, sex or handicap, in becoming a member of the Boy Scouts of America. Camp Kern is a Boy Scout resident summer camp operated by the Southern Sierra Council, Boy Scouts of America. Camp Kern is a fully accredited camp certified by the Boy Scouts of America National Council and operates under strict guidelines established by the State of California, Fresno County, United States Forest Service and Huntington Lake Community Association.

3 THE SUMMER CAMP ADVENTURE Every hike and overnight campout is a rehearsal for the biggest event of the Scouting year: the unit's summer camp. A time when the whole gang sets out for a week of real honest-to-goodness, out-of-doors scouting. To a scout, summer camp is the greatest adventure that Scouting can offer. To you, the unit leader, summer camp is the greatest chance you must get to know each of your boys, and by knowing him, help him to grow - to help him become physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. Take a boy to camp and immediately you set out to work a multitude of influences. The activities of each camp day harden the muscles of his body, tan his skin, sweeps fresh air through his lungs, and teaches him new skills. He develops some of the resourcefulness and self-reliance of the pioneer while he learns teamwork and team play. He engages with boys his age while he develops a respect and a belief in the traditional values of his country. Nature around him touches him deeply - the stillness of the forest, the freedom of the sky, the beauty of the sunset. Life in camp has a way of bringing out the character traits of a boy, and the fact that you are there in camp with him, twenty-four hours a day, and can watch his reactions, gives you a clue as to what you can do for him. You can give the shy boy confidence by encouraging him to mix with others. You can give the tongue-tied boy a chance to entertain the gang with a stunt at the campfire. You can confront the bully with the challenge to lend a hand to the boy he bullied; make the shirker realize that when he works for the good of his patrol he works for himself too; make the braggart see himself as others see him. You can strengthen the unity of each patrol and bolster the leadership of each patrol leader by standing squarely behind him in his efforts. The ideal method for Scout camping is unit camping under its own leadership - its own leader, assistant unit leaders, and its youth leadership. Best wishes on a super camp adventure in 2018.

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION THINGS TO KNOW 1 GENERAL INFORMATION CAMP CONTACTS 2 MAIL SERVICE 2 FEES AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE 3 REFUND POLICY 3-4 CAMPERSHIPS 4 PROVISIONAL CAMPING 5 CAPACITY POLICY 5 PROGRAM OPPERTUNITIES BIKES 6 CAMPFIRES 7 BROTHERHOOD OF THE MOUNTAIN MAN 7-8 ADVENTURE DAY 8-9 HONOR TROOP RIBBONS 10 LEADERSHIP TRAINING MILE SWIM 11 NATURE AREA AND TRAIL 11 ORDER OF THE ARROW 11 OUTDOOR WTHICS 11 SPL ROUND TABLE 11 SERVICE PROJECTS 11 SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES 12 OPEN PROGRAM 12 ADVANCEMENT MERIT BADGE CLASSES BOATING 15 FISHING 15 HANDICRAFT 15 TRAIL TO FIRST CLASS 15 OFF-SITE PROGRAMS AND OFFERINGS 16 GENERAL OPERATIONS TRAVEL DIRECTIONS 17 ARRIVAL AND PARKING EARLY ARRIVAL 18 INSURANCE 18 HEALTH SCREENING 18 MEDICAL INFORMATION PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS 19 SPECIAL NEEDS/DISABILITIES 20 CAMPER FINTESS LEVEL 20 CAMP FACILITIES CAMPSITES 21 TRADING POST 21 SHOWER AND RESTROOM FACILITIES 21 LAUNDRY FACILITIES 21 MEAL SERVICE 22 HOST AND WAITER DUTIES 22 CAMP SAFETY EMERGENCY PROCEDURES/ ECOLOGY AX YARD / LIGHTNING 23 BEAR COUNTRY 23 PERSONAL SAFETY AQUATICS/FIRE SAFETY 24 SHOOTING POLICY INFORMATION PHONES/PHONE USE 25 INTERNET/COMPUTER USE 25 QUIET HOURS 26 DUTY TO GOD 26 LEADERSHIP REQUIREMENTS 26 LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES 26 MALE/FEMALE SLEEPING ARRANGMENTS 27 YOUTH PROTECTION 27 ADULTS/YOUTH LEAVING CAMP 28 VISITORS 29 DAMAGED AQUIPMENT 29 ALCOHOL/DRUGS 30 TOBACCO 30 HAZING 30 DICIPLINE 30 FIREWORKS 30

5 WELCOME TO CAMP KERN Welcome to beautiful Camp Kern located at Huntington Lake, one of the most famous sailing lakes in the western hemisphere. At an elevation of 7,000 feet and West of the San Joaquin Valley in the high Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, the camp operates under a non-discriminatory special use permit issued by the USDA Forest Department. About an hour and forty-five minutes from Fresno, California, Camp Kern offers more than a traditional scout camp experience. Under the guidance of an experienced staff you will enjoy an outstanding program. This will be the summer camp experience to remember for the rest of your life. Once you have had a taste of Camp Kern, you will want to return year after year. Camping in the outdoors is the highlight of the troop s annual program as scouts apply the skills they have learned and practiced all year long. With hour-long Scout meetings each week, the average troop spends about 52 hours of Scouting in one year. One week at Camp Kern can provide 70 or more hours of concentrated programs. Summer camp is a years worth of skill practice and adventure in seven days! It s no wonder you can t spell Scouting without outing. This leaders guide is designed to help you prepare for camp and to make your stay both easier and more enjoyable. If there are any questions or concerns for you or your troop please feel free to contact the Southern Sierra Council office at (661) or Camp Kern (559) after June 15th. We will be happy to talk with you or answer any questions you might have about camp. We are excited to have you at Camp Kern and we will work to make it the best Boy Scout camp experience you have ever had. Camp Kern experiences a broad range of weather conditions. Conditions can change from hot to cold, from dry to wet within a 24-hour period, so pack and dress appropriately. Depending on your scheduled week, the type of clothing you should bring may vary. Warm clothing is recommended for the morning and night, and lighter clothing during the day. Highs are typically in the 70s and 80s and lows in the 30s and 40s. Although we seldom experience rain, it is a good idea to be prepared. For updates on current weather conditions at Camp Kern, feel free to call us at There are no roads into camp; access is by boat only. All campers, gear, food, and supplies are transported to camp on our barges. Our potable water for the camp comes from a well inspected by the Fresno County Health Department. As it comes straight from the mountain, Camp Kern s water is extremely fresh and tastes great! You will be camping in the wilderness, so you can expect to encounter spiders, ants, mosquitoes, and other insects. Though we typically don t THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT CAMP KERN have many mosquitos. Be sure to bring insect repellent. Please be aware of your surroundings, always do activities with a buddy, and respect Mother Nature and the wildlife therein. The Kaiser Wilderness is also home to bears, deer, birds, squirrels, and other assorted wildlife. It is their home, and they will occasionally visit Camp Kern. We provide tents, and in some cases, cabins for our campers. The assignment of campsites is completely logistical. That is to say, we assign campsites in a way which fits all troops in the best possible way. Please bring your own bedding. It is highly recommended that you bring a comfortable bedroll, inflatable mattress, or sleeping pad. Cots are available only for adult leaders upon Request. 1

6 GENERAL INFORMATION CAMP CONTACTS Throughout the process of preparing for camp, you may need to contact individuals associated with Camp Kern. The following is a list of whom to contact and the best way to reach them: Camp Registrar: Christy Schleibaum Phone: x108 Fax: Christy.schleibaum@scouting.org Camp Administrator: Donivan Crawford Phone: x106 donivan.crawford@scouting.org Camp Kern Website: www. Camp Phone Numbers: (June 24 August 4) Business phone: Camp Emergency Phone Number: Camp Kern Mailing Addresses Via USPS Via all other carriers Scout / Adult Leader Name Scout / Adult Leader Name Troop Number / Week # Troop Number / Week # Camp Kern, B.S.A. Camp Kern, B.S.A. PO Box Huntington Lake Road Lakeshore, CA Lakeshore, CA MAIL SERVICE Scouts may receive mail at Camp Kern from friends and family. Please encourage them to mail these things well in advance of your time at camp to ensure their arrival during your scheduled week. All packages should be sent via UPS or FedEx. 2

7 2017 SESSION DATES Week 1: 7/8-7/14 Week 2: 7/15-7/21 Week 3: 7/23-7/28 Week4: 7/29-8/4 CAMP FEES Week 3 Youth $400 (Out of Council $410) Adults $175 (Out of Council $185) Weeks 1, 2, & 4 Youth $425 (Out of Council $435) Adults $175 (Out of Council $185) Adults who replace leaders during the week can share fees. Adults coming to camp who do not replace a leader in their troop are charged at a rate of $65 per day, to be paid prior to arrival or in the Trading Post upon arrival. This price includes room, board, and use of camp facility. Please notify Camp Kern administration of all leadership changes. PAYMENT SCHEDULE Camp Reservation $ per unit, per camp session January 16, 2018 Camper Confirmation of $ per youth and adult February 20, 2018 $150 per camper and additional leader, remainder adult leaders due April 17, 2018 Remaining Troop balance due minus the deposit REFUNDS The $ reservation deposit is non-refundable. Because the Southern Sierra Council must begin making financial commitments for staff, supplies, etc. many months prior to the camp sessions, all participants are required to make a financial commitment to summer camp of at least $75.00 by the January payment deadline, per estimated camper count on the reservation form. This 3

8 per person camper confirmation payment is non-refundable, but may be applied to an additional camper from the same unit, if the total number of youth scheduled to attend does not decrease. If the first camper payment is not made by the January deadline, the unit will be charged in full for the number of reservations claimed on the original camp reservation form. The Council reserves the right to cancel the reservation if payments are not received in full by each of the payment schedule dates, and to adjust campsites or to add another unit to the campsite if campsite capacity is not met by the number of camper confirmation payments. All fees become non-refundable after the full payment deadline. Individual fees, however, may be refunded at the discretion of the Southern Sierra Council in the following cases: camper/family emergency - serious illness, death or out-of-the-area relocation required summer school during the camp session There will be a unit cancellation fee of $ per camper; no exceptions. Only the Camp Contact Person may make a refund request. Please provide the following information. unit type and number and district Name and mailing address of payee Camp session attended reason for refund Refund requests must be received at the Council Service Center in Bakersfield no later than August 15th. No refunds will be considered for requests received after this date. Refunds will be made payable to the unit only. It is the responsibility of the unit leadership to understand and abide by the Council Refund and Resident Camp Fee policies. CAMPERSHIPS A scout is thrifty and as such is encouraged to do all he can to help pay his way to camp. At times, however, it is difficult for a scout and his family to raise the full fee for summer camp. Limited financial help is available from the Southern Sierra Council on an individual basis for Scouts who could not otherwise go to camp due to financial hardships. Scoutmasters in the Southern Sierra Council who know of any youth with a legitimate need for financial help are encouraged to help that Scout apply for a Campership. The Campership Application is available on the council website. Camperships are available for youth members of the Southern Sierra Council only. 4

9 BOY SCOUT PROVISIONAL CAMPING Scouts who cannot attend camp with their unit or who want an extra week at camp or units unable to provide two-deep adult leadership will become members of a provisional troop. Individual Scouts are encouraged to attend with a friend. Scouts attending with friends will be assigned to the same unit and site. Standalone provisional scouts will still need to pay camp fees as above but with a reduced deposit fee of one hundred dollars. Just indicate provisional on the application under unit number. Units that are unable to provide two-deep adult leadership must abide by the original payment plan without a reduced deposit. CAPACITY POLICY PLEASE, if your camper numbers increase (or decrease) please notify the camp registrar IMMEDIATELY. The US Forest Service limits camp properties to a certain number of campers per session. Increasing or decreasing the total number of campers affects every troop in camp that week. Every attempt will be made to place your troop in a larger campsite, but a larger site cannot be guaranteed and you may have to bring the extra tents necessary to accommodate the additional campers. Please be considerate when adding additional campers by informing the Camp Registrar at least 2 weeks before your scheduled session. 5

10 CAMP KERN PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES Welcome to the Camp Kern BSA summer program. Along with the great location and staff, Kern offers outstanding camp programs that emphasize the aims and methods of scouting. The intent of the camp program is to build character, increase citizenship, and develop increased physical, mental, and emotional fitness in all campers. To ensure this the program specializes in building self-reliance, advancing others through service oriented activities, strengthening a Scouts belief in the Scout Oath and Law, incorporating the patrol method in all applicable activities, emphasizing the benefits of being out-of-doors through various skills and activities, encouraging positive adult role modeling for the youth campers, while at the same time increasing self-worth and positive identity, devotion to religious ideals, and strengthening leadership skills. Scouts and leaders will experience a myriad of activities that are fun, challenging, and designed to facilitate personal growth. Merit badge courses, troop-time elective activities, and special programs will ensure that everyone in your troop is having a great time. GENERAL OVERVIEW OF THE CAMP PROGRAM At Camp Kern, we recognize that we may not accurately anticipate the number of boys interested in each program opportunity from one week to the next. This can result in some sessions impacted and multiple sessions of one course each with just a few participants. To better align our staff and resource, we ask the scouts what they want to do at while at camp. The reservation contact for your unit will receive an from us with instructions about 6 weeks before arriving at camp. We ask that you return the document to us about 2 weeks later (the exact date will be in the ). You will know about 2 weeks before your session starts the schedules for your scouts. This will allow us to serve your unit and youth as best as possible. Some merit badges will be offered as closed or defined class times, others as open or drop-in. Each day at camp, except for Wednesday which is adventure day, the program is divided into three parts: morning, afternoon, and evening. Morning and afternoon program times contain both open and closed program opportunities. Evening program varies from day to day. Friday afternoon consists of organized camp-wide games. During a scout s open program time, they may drop-in and work on advancement, learn something new, swim in the lake, go sailing, shoot rifles and shotguns, visiting the trading post, go for a hike, or simply whittle in their campsite or work on requirements independently. The full week-long schedule can be viewed on the Camp Kern Week at a Glance provided in the recourse section of our website. BIKES IN CAMP The camp has a number of Mountain bikes that are used in the ACE program. Bikes will be available for checkout during open time when they are not being used by the ACE or cycling program. Scouts must know and follow all the BSA and Forest Service bicycle rules, which includes wearing a helmet, staying on the trails while riding and traveling at safe speeds, especially on multi-use trails. Due to safety issues, bike riding in camp is prohibited; therefore, if you plan on biking, we recommend that you sign up with the ACE or cycling program. You may bring your own personal bike, but you may do so at your own risk and so long as you comply with the camp guidelines stated above. 6

11 CAMPFIRES Camp Kern facilitates three different campfires throughout the week. The camp staff delivers a memorable opening campfire for campers. The mid-week Commissioner Campfire allows each troop to participate and share their favorite skits, songs and run-ons. The closing campfire entertainment is provided by the campers and recognition presented by the staff to campers. If your unit would like to participate in the closing campfire, be prepared to present your desired part at the Commissioner Campfire. Units will be informed no later than Thursday that their skit, song or run-on has been selected. Please keep all performances scouting appropriate. CAMPER TOTEM Each camper will be given a leather totem once they arrive at camp. Throughout the week, each camper will be recognized for participation in programs. This is done by presenting colored beads for each activity they have participated in. While some beads will be earned through program participation, other beads are elective. As part of our Camp Intrusion Policy, the camp asks that each adult camper wear their totem at all times. This allows staff to quickly discern between adult campers and unregistered visitors. BROTHERHOOD OF THE MOUNTAINMAN Camp Kern has its own in-camp honor society known as the Brotherhood of the Mountain Man. Scouts who meet the progress record requirements will advance in the brotherhood and will be given the corresponding rocker, which symbolizes their standing at the camp. Adult leaders can also advance in the brotherhood as they complete requirements at camp. The round center patch can be purchased in the trading post for $4.50 per patch. The senior patrol leader, under the direction of the Scoutmaster, is ultimately responsible for keeping track of each scout s progress. The progress record requirements are found at the end of this program guide and scout names can be filled in before camp and forms brought to camp. As scouts and adult leaders return to Camp Kern year after year, participate in the program, and fulfill all the requirements for rank advancement they will advance as follows: 1 st year: Woods Runner 2 nd year Pathfinder 3 rd year Trapper 4 th year Chief Trader 5 th year Frontiersman 6 th year Booshway 7 th year Mountain Man ADVENTURE DAY Wednesday at Camp Kern is adventure day. Each troop will decide whether they will go a-foot, a-pedal, or a- float. Larger troops can split up and go on two or three different adventures as long as they have the adult leaders to cover youth protection requirements. Each camper will be given a lunch to pack on the go. Program areas will be closed during the day. However, the trading post, shooting ranges, and the handicraft will open at 3:00 PM. Please keep in mind that Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat policies will be enforced at all adventure day destinations. A-FOOT Huntington Lake borders the Kaiser Wilderness. This 22,700-acre national wilderness area gives scouts and adult leader s opportunities to hike, backpack, and fish at elevations between 7,000 and 10,320 feet. The area boasts spectacular vistas, terrain that allows for hikes that range from easy or difficult, and a wide variety of wildlife. Each troop can select one of several locations and spend the day hiking with experienced staff friends. The hikes offered differ in difficulty, length, and terrain, so be sure to work with your Senior Patrol Leader and troop to select a hike that works for the troop s ability level. Pack inspections will be done by staff and leaders to 7

12 ensure that every scout has the proper equipment for their hike. During sessions starting on Mondays, the first half of the day is set aside for adventure day with the afternoon for traditional program. As such, not all routes will be offered during those sessions for the sake of time. Listed below are just a few of the many natural, water features, beautiful meadows, and impressive rock formations that will create a spectacular hiking experience for all ages and levels: Sunset Point- 4 Miles Take an easy but beautiful hike to Sunset Point. At the end, you will be greeted with a magnificent view of the Big Creek Canyon where you can eat lunch and admire the vista. After the hike, feel free to go to the beach near the dam #3 and cool down at the lake. About a 2 ½ hour hike one way. A great hike for younger scouts. Indian Pools- 5 Miles Another easy hike that will take you to natural pools found on Big Creek. This hike is great for all levels, especially the younger scouts. Once you reach the pools, cool down in the fresh water and eat lunch in the open area where you can relax and play. About a 1-2 hour hike each way. Rancheria Falls- 7 Miles An intermediate hike that will take you past the heli-pad to the Rancheria trail head. With an 800-foot elevation gain, this hike takes you to the falls where you will eat lunch and have a chance to play in the falls. About a 3- hour hike one way. Nellie Lake- 11 Miles An advanced hike which will take you to the secluded and beautiful Nellie Lake. With a 1600-foot elevation gain, you will depart in the early morning and be barged across to the west end of the lake. From there you will take the 6-mile hike up to Nellie Lake where you will eat lunch and be allowed to swim in one of the clearest lakes around. This is an all-day hike. Huntington Lake Loop- 15 Miles This loop around the lake is a relatively flat route with just a few hundred feet of total relief. This route is available as a foot hike or mountain bike experience. Party size for the mountain bike option is limited to available mountain bikes. Participants may bring a personal bike for this outing if desired. If a unit wishes to, it is possible to incorporate your lunch experience at one of the local eateries. If a unit elects to do this, they will be responsible for their meal. Let our staff know your intentions when making this selection. Kaiser Peak Loop- 17 Miles The longest and most challenging hike offered at Camp Kern. With a 3,300-foot elevation gain, this hike is for experienced hikers only. You will depart early in the morning and be barged to the Lakeshore Resort. From there, you will begin the 10 ½ mile hike to the tallest peak in the Sierra National Forest. Once there, you will enjoy lunch at the top and the beautiful view of the valley. This is an all-day hike. 8

13 A-FLOAT Sitting on the shores of Huntington Lake provides incredible boating opportunities. Those wishing to take advantage of this setting will be provided an opportunity to do so. Troops are expected to provide their own adult leadership and abide by Safety Afloat. Our waterfront staff welcomes the opportunity for your unit to learn the process of preparing for an afloat trip without the worry of the equipment or logistics. We strongly suggest bringing a drybag for your electronics. Drybags will be available for purchase in the trading post. Scout Islands- 2 ¼ Miles A little over a mile away, Scout islands are the closest a-float destinations. The two islands are close enough that many people can wade the land bridge between the two. Canoes, kayaks, row boats and sunfish are all possible ways to get to and from these islands, though care must be exercised when approaching in a sail boat because of shallow rocks. Pirates Cove- 4 Miles This two-mile one-way route hugs the south shore of the lake. Pirates Cove is on the east side of Sunset Point so the same activities are available here as well. A unit could split into a-foot and a-float group and meet for lunch and leisure. Canoes, kayaks. And Sunfish are all possible ways to get here. Targua Island- 5 Miles This island is the largest on the lake. Located at the west end, the view east affords vistas up both the Rancheria and Big Creek drainages. By hugging the south shore, paddle craft can avoid most of the wind. Winds begin to pick up around 10AM and taper off a little after 4PM so canoes, kayaks, and sunfish can plan accordingly. A-HOOF Camp Kern offers the Horsemanship merit badge for twenty-five Scouts per week. This badge is taught by D&F Pack Station in Lakeshore, California. In addition to learning how to safely ride and care for horses, Scouts who earn this merit badge will gain an understanding of the instincts and behaviors of horses and humane and effective methods for training horses. For an extra $130 the Scout can spend the day earning the horsemanship badge as an alternate activity on Adventure Day. If you have Scouts interested in this merit badge, please contact the Southern Sierra Council office as soon as possible to ensure a spot due to the limited space each week. Once at camp the camp administration will work with the leaders to arrange transportation to and from the stables, across the lake. A-SPOKE The western slopes of the Sierra Nevada call to so many to go for a ride among towering firs, majestic Ponderosa and Jeffery Pines. Units are welcome to adventure out there on their own mountain bikes or by using ours. There are two routes described in the A-Foot section in greater detail available for mountain biking: Sunset Point and the Huntington Lake Loop. These options can regularly fill up quick so don t delay on signing at camp. 9

14 HONOR TROOP RIBBONS Each troop will have the opportunity to earn the Camp Kern Honor Troop Award as they participate and progress in the program during the week. This award honors those units who are proactive in promoting the values of Scouting through their service to others and the camp. This is not a competition between troops, but rather a goal to work toward while simultaneously building troop unity and facilitating personal development. Scouts, under the direction and encouragement of their adult leaders and the staff, will strive for success. Ribbons will be presented to each unit at the closing campfire so that deserving troops may be recognized in front of the camp. LEADERSHIP TRAINING Roundtables will be held for Scoutmasters and adult leaders on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. These meetings are designed to keep you informed about the daily program while simultaneously infusing leadership concepts into your experience at camp. They are also a great time during which questions can be asked and answered. We highly encourage that at least one adult leader from every troop attends the daily roundtable so that they can relay the appropriate information to their troop. Camp Kern also offers the following adult training opportunities: A. Paddle Craft Safety- BSA Paddle Craft Safety expands Safety Afloat training to include the skills and knowledge needed for a unit leader to confidently supervise canoeing or kayaking excursions on flat water. B. Swimming and Water Rescue- Training for BSA Swimming & Water Rescue provides BSA leaders with information and skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to swimming emergencies during unit swimming activities. It expands the awareness instruction provided by Safe Swim Defense training. C. BSA Lifeguard (15 and older) - The primary purpose of this training program is no longer to provide units with the skills necessary to conduct safe swimming and boating activities. This revised BSA Lifeguard program is now focused on the need to provide professional lifeguards for BSA-operated facilities, council aquatics committees, and year-round aquatics programming with training that meets the requirements of government agencies at regulated swimming venues. the class will begin on Monday. It will take about thirty hours to complete during the week and will require the person to work on requirements during most all program hours, all day Wednesday, and most of the open time throughout the week. The candidates will work closely with the aquatics staff throughout the week and learn all aspects of lifeguard skills and waterfront operation. **Note: There must be at least 4 participants in the program during the week to run the class and the class may not be offered during all camp sessions** D. Leave no Trace Awareness- This course is a general introduction to the Leave No Trace ethics and skills to those with little prior exposure to it. The course is designed to help youth and adults at all program levels understand the general principles of Leave No Trace and how to apply them in the general BSA outdoor program. It is also designed to give adult volunteers the confidence to assess youth understanding and skills for purposes of signing off on Boy Scout/Varsity Scout Second Class and First Class rank requirements and Venturing Outdoor Bronze and Ranger Award requirements. 10

15 E. TreadLightly- a mission to promote responsible outdoor recreation through ethics education and stewardship. TreadLightly s goal is to balance the needs of the people who enjoy outdoor recreation with our need to maintain a healthy environment. MILE SWIM This is an individual activity that will require a buddy who will need to supervise and count laps. The BSA Mile Swim Award is a progressive award. Scouts or adult leaders can earn the BSA Mile Swim. To do so they must pass the swim check and swim the ¼ mile on Tuesday, ½ mile on Thursday, and full mile on Friday during the week at camp. Campers can complete these swims during afternoon open time. Swimmers wishing to complete the BSA Mile Swim Award are encouraged to meet with the Waterfront Director at the beginning of open time on Tuesday to get started. NATURE AREA AND TRAIL Camp Kern offers many opportunities to discover and learn about the environment and the unique ecology and history of the Kaiser National Wilderness. Taking a guided nature trail tour is not only lots of fun but educational as well. Learn about the variety of plant and animal life the area has to offer. ORDER OF THE ARROW Camp Kern emphasizes the promotion of the Order of the Arrow (OA). This is done so through with an icecream social for all current members of the OA at 8:30 pm in the Dining Hall at the end of the first full day at camp. Please bring either your sash or lodge flap to show membership. OUTDOOR ETHICS Along with providing Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class advancement opportunities the Trail to First Class program will also provide Outdoor Ethics learning opportunities. All Monday classes will spend a portion of time teaching the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and conducting several activities that emphasize understanding the Outdoor Code. SENIOR PATROL LEADER ROUNDTABLE Roundtables will be held for the SPL s. Check the Week at A Glance for your week for the time. Location will be shared upon arrival. These meetings, under the leadership of the commissioners, and are designed to keep the SPL s informed about the daily schedule while giving them additional tools needed to be better leaders of their troop. SERVICE PROJECTS Camp Kern provides opportunities for your unit to participate in service projects while in camp. This is an important part of the camping experience and helps Scouts gain a sense of ownership in Camp Kern. The ranger staff will tailor projects to your troop s skill, overall age, and ability level. If you have any ideas about the service project you would like to perform, simply let us know. Troop Friend Night is designed for Scouts to have a chance to work on service projects with their troop friends. This service participation also helps the Scouts advance in the Brotherhood of the Mountain Man. 11

16 SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES The following are special opportunities for boys to improve their skills and serve others. To have a chance to earn special recognition in these fields you must meet the requirements written next to the award. Those who participate and complete the requirements will be recognized at the end of camp and be eligible to purchase the patch or carry the card that correlates with the award. Firem n Chit: Taught in the Handicraft or Trail to First Class area during the open time and is available to all adults and boys. Totin Chip: Taught in the Handicraft or Trail to First Class area during the open time and is available to all adults and boys. Scouts must have this certification before they can handle knives at camp. Mile Swim BSA: Available to all Scouts & Adult Leaders. See mile swim requirements above. OPEN PROGRAM Scouts will have open, or elective, time during their days. This time is designated for scouts and troops to do what they want at camp. Leaders who want to organize troop activities can do so at this time. Scouts who wish to go swim, boat or sail can do so with a buddy. Scouts can use their time to take a nature tour, visit the handicraft area and work on a project, shoot at one of the ranges. Scouts can also work on additional merit badges if they wish. Open time is also a good time to complete requirements for partial merit badges which may have been received from the previous year. Depending on the time and requirements that need to be completed, our counselors may be able to assist your scouts in completing their partial merit badges. 12

17 ADVANCEMENT AT CAMP KERN Rank advancement is primarily the responsibility of the unit leaders and the unit committee. Camp Kern assists unit leadership by providing the finest in instruction and counseling. Although staff instructors and counselors will provide accurate records for information covered and skills accomplished, it is the responsibility of each unit leader to mark rank advancements in each scout s individual record (usually in his handbook). Camp counselors will also sign merit badge cards, but the unit leaders are responsible to ensure proper recording in each scout s permanent record. MERIT BADGE CLASSES The teaching of merit badges at Camp Kern is an important part of the program. Ensuring that campers receive the highest quality instruction is vital to the integrity of the Scouting program. While at camp Scouts must complete all the requirements no more, no less to receive the completed blue card. Scouts who do not complete the merit badge will receive a partial and will be able to complete the merit badge back at home with a local merit badge counselor. Because some of the merit badges offered at Camp Kern have requirements that cannot be completed at camp, it is important for the Scoutmaster to have each scout work on these before camp. It is suggested that the Scoutmaster look through the merit badge requirements that each scout is taking and plan on fulfilling those aspects before camp begins. If the Scout has completed the requirement before camp just send him to class with a note indicating that specific requirement has been completed to your satisfaction. This will allow the counselor to award credit which will enable the scout to earn the badge if the remaining requirements are completed at camp. Merit badges such as environmental science (solitary observation), astronomy (night observations), weather (out-of-class observations), first aid (teaching others), to name a few, will require extra effort on behalf of the Scout. Many of these requirements can be fulfilled at camp with the assistance of the Scoutmaster during the scout s own time. Scouts should also read requirements before coming to camp and begin any such requirements prior to coming if they wish to complete the badges at camp. Camp Kern is not a merit badge mill. Rather, we offer merit badge learning opportunities as one part of the overall camp experience. OPEN PROGRAM MERIT BADGE CLASSES A Scout who wants to earn an extra merit badge or two can if he desires. There is no pre-registration for any open time merit badge class. All he must do is pick a merit badge, show up at the designated location indicated, and work on the merit badge from 2-5 pm. The counselor s goal is to get as much of the merit badge as possible completed. Some merit badges may be completed in a single afternoon. 13

18 2018 Camp Kern Merit Badges MERIT BADGE PREREQUISITE/COST MERIT BADGE PREQUISITE/COST ACE MAMMAL STUDY ARCHERY $5.00 MOTOR BOATING $10.00 ART 6 NATURE ASTRONOMY 5a-b, 6b, 8 ORIENTEERING 7 BASKETRY $15.00 PERSONAL FITTNESS 1b, 7, 8 BIRD STUDY 5a-d, 7a PIONEERING $15.00, 2a CANOEING PLANT SCIENCE 5, 8 CIT. IN THE COMMUNITY 3, 4b, 7c RIFLE SHOOTING $5.00/40 Rounds CIT. IN THE NATION 2a-d, 3, 6 ROWING COMMUNICATIONS 1,5,7,8 SAILING CYCLING SALESMANSHIP 5, 6 EMERGENCY PREP. 1, 6c, 7 SCULPTURE $10.00 ENVIRNMENTAL SCIENCE 6 SECOND CLASS FIRST AID 1, 2d SHOTGUN $10/25 Rounds FIRST CLASS SOIL/WATER SONSERVATION 7 FISHING SPORTS 4, 5 FLY FISHING SUSTAINABILITY 1, 2, 5a FORESTRY 1, 5, 7 SWIMMING GEOLOGY 4, 5d TENDERFOOT INDIAN LORE $20.00 THEATRE INSECT STUDY 4a-b WEATHER 9b, 11 KAYAKING WELDING LEATHER WORK $20.00 WILDERNESS SURVIVAL LIFESAVING WOOD CARVING $

19 EXPLANATION OF PROGRAM OFFERINGS BOATING PROGRAM Kern provides canoes, rowboats, motor boats, sunfish, catamarans and kayaks on Huntington Lake. This is a great opportunity for scouts and leaders to practice their boating skills and just have fun. Every camper must present their buddy tag before entering the boating area. Only certified swimmers who have passed the swim check may use the boats. Everyone must use a lifesaving vest when in a boat on the water. An orientation and demonstration of ability is required to use equipment. FISHING PROGRAM Many scouts join scouting for the promise of fishing; Camp Kern provides that opportunity. At a depth of 256 feet, Huntington Lake, with its tributaries, reefs and coves, creates an environment where trout can grow to impressive sizes. Camp Kern provides great opportunities for scouts to angle and earn related merit badges. Each week, weather permitting, we offer a morning and evening fishing barge. Our trading post does stock bait, typically salmon eggs and Power Bait which are quite effect at Huntington Lake, as well as starter fishing poles. Though catch and release is encouraged, should a camper wish to cook a fish s/he may do so on the BBQ in the campsite. HANDICRAFT PROGRAM The handicraft area is available to any camper who wishes to use it during the open time. It is a great place for scouts who are in their first year of Scouting. Most activities have a material cost before the camper can complete the activity. While handicraft classes are taught during the class time they are also taught during the open time. See the open time merit badge schedule for days and times the classes are taught. TRAIL TO FIRST CLASS The Trail to First Class program is for all scouts needing to pass off rank advancement requirements for Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class. Camp Kern offers a merit badge period for teaching the skills required in each rank. If the scout wants to work on all three ranks he must take each of the merit badge periods. We suggest that new scouts who are focusing on rank advancement take at least one class, as they will meet each day during closed program to work on requirements. For scouts who have only a few requirements to pass off, it is suggested that they do not sign up for a class, but rather work on their requirements during the open time. If the scouts do take all three periods they will still have time during open time to earn other merit badges. Please note that scouts who come to camp as Tenderfoots will not be First Class by the end of the week, but if they attend class every day and work hard during the open time, they will complete many of the requirements needed to advance. Included in this guide is the form the counselor will use to mark what the Scout has passed off during the week. This will be returned to the Scoutmaster. 15

20 OFF-SITE PROGRAMS AND OFFERINGS ADVANCED CAMPER EXPERIENCE (ACE) During each summer camp session, we offer a program geared toward those 14 and older, but open to any scouts with the physical ability. The Advance Camper Experience (ACE) Program gives older Scouts an opportunity to meet others their own age, go on high adventure activities, and experience activities they may have never done before. These Scouts will stay in their Troop campsites, eat, and participate in some Troop program activities and all camp wide activities. The ACE Program can/will take the place of merit badge classes. Those campers who participate in every ACE activity will receive a special recognition at the end of the camping week. However, for those scouts that want to work on merit badges at camp can do so in the morning and participate in the ACE activities in the afternoon. Camp Kern ACE Week at a Glance Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 9:30 AM Mushroom Rock Mountain Kayaking & Sunset Point Boarding Fishing Hike Kaiser Peak Hike Sailing 2:00 PM 5 Mile Bike Trek *Leaving at 6:30 AM Sailing Black Powder Shooting These activities are subject to change. Canoe to Scout Island (Overnighter After Dinner) HORSEMANSHIP MERIT BADGE The Horsemanship merit badge is offered as a part of Adventure Day. For more information, see a-hoof under Adventure Day. MOUNTAIN BIKING PRPGRAM (CYCLING MERIT BADGE) Cycling is another off-site Merit Badge that is offered at Camp Kern. This Class will take approximately 20 hours to complete during both open and closed, program times. During class time scouts will learn the basics of bicycle types, repairs, maintenance, equipment, riding skills, and safety that they will need to earn the Cycling merit badge, as well as take all 7 rides required for completion. All rides are subject to change. Camp Kern CYCLING Week at a Glance Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Closed Classroom 2 Mile Ride 2 Mile Program 11AM-12PM 11AM-12PM 11AM-12PM 22 Mile 5 Mile 11AM-5PM *Leaving at 6:30 PM Open Program Classroom 2PM-3PM 8 Mile Ride 2PM-5PM 8 Mile 2PM-5PM 5 Mile 6:30PM-8PM 16

21 TRAVEL DIRECTIONS GENERAL OPERATIONS The simplest route from Southern California runs north on Highway 99. Once in the city of Fresno, take exit 131 to merge onto CA 41 N towards Yosemite. Use the right 2 lanes to take exit 128A to merge onto CA 180 E towards Kings Canyon and then keep left at the fork following the signs for CA 168 E/Clovis/Huntington Lake. Follow CA 168 East for about 30 minutes through the town of Prather, taking the first exit from the traffic circle. From Northern California, drive South on Highway 99 towards Madera. Take exit 155 for W. Cleveland Ave / Ave. 15 ½ and turn left following the signs for Millerton Lake. In ¼ mile, turn right to stay on W. Cleveland Ave. After 1.7 miles there is a dog-leg to the right and the road changes to Tozer St. Make a left turn shortly after this onto CA 145 N/ E. Yosemite Ave. A few miles after crossing CA 41, turn right on Road 206 at the T. Upon crossing the San Joaquin River, turn left on N. Friant Rd. After passing the Indian Casino, turn left at the T onto Auberry Road. Take the second exit from the traffic circle in Prather, for CA 168 E./Table Mountain. From Prather, continue East on CA 168. After a few minutes go left at the only stop sign on CA 168 to continue, on CA 168 E. You will drive up the four-lane road and through the community of Shaver Lake. After passing the dam of Shaver Lake you are about 20 minutes away. Once you see the China Peak Ski Resort sign, you are almost there. Continue for about 3 minutes. After crossing a bridge with a view of a power plant, CA 168 ends. Continue, on Huntington Lake Road. After passing the Rancheria Marina in a little more than a ¼ mile, turn left into the Boy Scout parking area (the fire station is to the right). If you pass the U.S. Post Office and Lakeshore resort you have gone about a quarter mile too far. The staff will be there to welcome you to the parking area and help get your luggage loaded onto the barge beginning at 12:00 pm. TRAVELING TO CAMP Each unit is responsible for furnishing its own transportation to and from camp. Each Scout must have a signed Parent Authorization for Trip/Activity Medical Treatment for travel to and from camp. This signed form should be given to the driver of the vehicle in which that Scout rides, and collected by the unit leader on arrival at camp. Make sure everyone has had a good meal and plenty of rest before making the trip to camp. Units traveling distances of more than two hours should plan at least one rest stop on their way to camp. Remember, in most cases the first meal the scout will have could be as much as six hours after arrival at camp. Make sure your scouts are physically prepared for the day. Under NO circumstances are youth or adults to ride in the backs of trucks, trailers, or campers. ARRIVAL AND PARKING Please plan to arrive at the Boy Scout parking lot, commonly referred to as the Scout Docks, between 11:45 am and 2:30 pm on Sunday. For sessions starting on Monday, please arrive at the parking lot between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Your punctuality allows for a smooth check-in process. Parking passes will be issued to vehicles that will be parking in the BSA parking lot, as available. In cases of high camper attendance, parking spaces may be limited. In cases such as these, any excess cars will be relocated to an overflow and will be charged a daily parking fee. Barge loading will be done under the direction of our staff and according to available space. Camp Kern will do all it can to get everyone to camp in a swift manner. Each barge is filled with campers and equipment to maximize each trip across the lake. The parking lot used by Camp Kern is owned by the National Forest Service who has leased the rights to Rancheria Marina. As a result Camp Kern contracts with Rancheria Marina for use of 17

22 half of the parking lot during the camping season. Rancheria Marina charges a parking fee of $25.00 per vehicle for the week. Camp Kern will attempt to provide each unit with one free parking pass, however, supplies are limited. All other vehicles in the troop must purchase a $25.00 pass through the Rancheria Marina General Store and Gas Station upon arrival at camp. Plan on bringing $25 cash for each vehicle parked in the parking lot. Upon arrival staff members direct each vehicle to the appropriate place to park. DO NOT park in the Rancheria Marina parking areas. Your vehicle may be ticketed or towed at the owner s expense. Troops that are traveling to camp on Monday on a Sunday starting week must notify the Southern Sierra Council office with their intention to do so. Please be at the Camp Kern parking lot no later than 8:00 am. This will allow for a smooth check-in process. If not arriving on-time due to travel arrangements, car troubles, traffic, or other reasons, please notify the camp at (559) EARLY ARRIVAL & ACCOMMODATIONS We understand there are situations where arriving the day before the session starts are needed. As such, Camp Kern offers an early arrival plan at $30 per person. When choosing the early arrival plan the Campers are able arrive in late afternoon or evening after dinner, set-up camp and brunch will be provided the following morning. There will be opportunities to participate in religious services as well. We ask you make reservations and include the expected arrival time and youth/adult count at least two weeks in advance. INSURANCE Every unit attending camp must be covered by some type of accident and sickness insurance plan. All units registered in the Southern Sierra Council are covered under the BSA Campers Accident and Sickness insurance plan. Some Councils also provide this insurance to their registered units; others offer the insurance to their units at a small fee. Some units are covered by their chartered partner. All units from Councils other than the Southern Sierra Council must provide proof of Accident and Sickness insurance to the Camp Registrar no later than June 1st. Contact your local council office for proof of insurance. A council claim form may be acceptable proof. If proof is not received by June 1st, the Southern Sierra Council will purchase the BSA Campers Accident and Sickness insurance for the unit at a cost to the unit of $1.00 per person per day. The cost will be billed to the unit. Also make sure that each scout brings a copy of his standard health insurance card and a list of phone numbers in case of an emergency. HEALTH SCREENING All persons will be screened prior to entering camp for a fever, questioned if they have vomited in the last 24 hours or if they have had diarrhea in the last 24 hours. Any individual for whom one or more is true will not be allowed entry into camp, as required by the county health department, until free of symptoms for 24 hours. We suggest you screen yourselves prior to heading to camp. No one wants to find themselves in a situation where one or more participants may not enter camp for a day. Any participant needing to delay their trip and arrive late could take a bus or Amtrak to Fresno and be picked up by someone in your unit. You are encouraged to take your time and be mindful of those who might be prone to motion sickness in your vehicle. Simply keep us informed and we will ensure you get transportation into camp. MEDICAL INFORMATION All participants who come to camp must have a current BSA Annual Medical Health Record. Medical evaluations must be performed by a certified and licensed physician (MD or DO), nurse practitioner or physician assistant to 18