Merit Badges
- Astronomy
- Environmental Science
- Fish & Wildlife Management / Mammal Study
- Forestry
- Geology
- Plant Science
- Space Exploration (Rocket kit costs ~$10 and will require some free time to build)
Activities
- David Douglas Naturalist Award: The Scottish botanist was instrumental in recording the flora of the Pacific Northwest, as well as the names of many of those plants used by the Chinookan and Salish peoples. He is the namesake of the Douglas Fir, the third largest tree in the world and which graces the coastal rainforest where Camp Meriwether sits. This award recognizes individuals who follow in Douglas’ footsteps and continue to protect and revere the Earth.
- Plant ID: On a short hike with our staff learn to identify the local flora of the Oregon Coast.
Special Events
- Astronomy Star Party: Spend a few hours unforgettable hours learning all about the night sky and constellations – and possibly even a meteor shower – right next to the Pacific Ocean. Telescopes and binoculars are provided. We’ll attempt the Star Party Monday night at 9pm.In the event of cloudy weather, we’ll try again every night until we’re able to see the stars.
- Nature Scavenger Hunt: The nature staff will hold a scavenger hunt to test your knowledge and identification skills of plants, animals, insects, and other artifacts from all around camp. A great way to learn more about the flora and fauna of the Pacific Northwest coast!.
- Nature Jeopardy: Prove your mettle and knowledge of the natural world in an open contest of Nature Jeopardy.
- Gourmet Foraging: Scouts will have the opportunity to learn about the edible and delicious indigenous flora of the Oregon Coast.
- Beach Clean-Up: Help keep the beach as pristine as it was in 1926! Trash bags, gloves, and any other necessary equipment will be provided; all you need to bring is energy and a helping attitude. With new things washing up on the beach every week, you never know what you could find!
- Astro-Dome: Get ready to explore the heavens again, this time virtually! On Wednesday night, our staff will guide participants through what lies beyond Earth’s gravity well using a powerful projector that can show a 360-degree view of the night sky from any place at any time, labeled with stars, nebulae, and other celestial bodies.