Transcript No Slide Title

Green Backpacking Merit
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1

Requirement 1
Point out the advantages and
disadvantages of two types of boots
available for hiking.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Three major types of hiking boots.




Lightweight.
Midweight.
Heavyweight.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Lightweight boot advantages.








Best choice for day hikes, short distances, or smooth
terrain.
Usually made of lightweight fabric and synthetic materials
instead of leather.
Least expensive of all types.
Lowest impact on environmentally sensitive areas.
Dries out more quickly when wet.
Low-cut top, running-shoe styles available.
Most comfortable shoe right out of the box.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Lightweight boot disadvantages.








Least foot and ankle protection.
Unsuitable for carrying heavy loads.
Not for use on rugged terrain.
Insufficient for use on long trekking trips.
Least weather protection, not recommended for snowy or
wet weather.
Flimsy.
Usually cannot be resoled.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Midweight boot advantages.







Best all-around choice; combines good durability with
moderate weight and good overall comfort.
Widest variety of materials available: leather, fabric,
synthetic, or combination.
Excellent foot support and protection.
Moderate break in period.
Allows for carrying fully loaded packs.
Cleated soles good off trail on rocky terrain or slippery
ground.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Midweight boot advantages (continued).



Best value for all-around general use in any weather and
on all terrain.
Crampons can be attached on most for use on snow and
ice.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Midweight boot disadvantages.




Nonleather styles aren't waterproof unless lined with GoreTex.
Leather styles take longer to dry out if wet.
Moderate impact on environmentally sensitive areas due
to cleated soles.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Heavyweight boot advantages.








Best for serious mountaineering where rigidity and stability
are needed on ledges.
Most foot protection and support.
Most durable for all types.
Allows for carrying the heaviest loads.
Crampons can be attached for use on snow and ice.
Can be resoled, adding longevity.
Many insulated types available.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 1
Heavyweight boot disadvantages.






Heaviest requires more energy to lift feet, creating fatigue
on long trails.
High impact on environmentally sensitive areas; gouges
trails and displaces rocks more than most.
Long break-in period required.
Not for beginners.
Very expensive.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 2
Explain how to select a boot that fits
properly.




It should be snug, but not tight.
There should be more than a finger’s width between the
heel and the back of the boot when your foot is scrunched
toward the front.
The toes should wiggle freely.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
Requirement 3
Explain the proper care and
waterproofing of a pair of hiking boots.




Clean the boots and air dry them.
Use a waterproofing wax on leather boots or silicone spray
on fabric/synthetic boots.
Set them aside to dry.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1

Requirement 4
Explain the prevention of, and first aid
for, blisters.
Prevention of blisters:

Reduce friction by wearing good socks and broken-in
boots.

Wear thickly cushioned synthetic or wool socks, not
cotton.

Keep your feet dry.

Stop often on hikes to check for hot spots and to air out
your feet.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1

Requirement 4
Explain the prevention of, and first aid
for, blisters.
First-aid treatment for blisters:

Cover red spots with moleskin ir first aid tape to reduce
friction and prevent fluid buildup.

Dab rubbing alcohol to dry it out.

If you need to prick the fluid-filled sac, use a sterilized
needle.

Apply antiseptic and cover the blister with moleskin or a
bandage.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
MWS 1 Worksheet
1.
What are the three major types of hiking boots?

Lightweight.

Midweight.

Heavyweight.
2.
Which one is the best all-around choice for any terrain or
conditions?

Midweight.
3.
Pick one kind of hiking boot and list some advantages and
disadvantages of that style.

Refer to requirement 1.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
MWS 1 Worksheet
4.
How can you tell if a hiking boot fits properly?

It should be snug, but not tight. There should be more
than a finger’s width between the heel and the back of the
boot when your foot is scrunched toward the front. The
toes should wiggle freely.
5.
Explain the proper care and waterproofing of a pair of hiking
boots.

Clean the boots and air dry them. Use a waterproofing
wax on leather boots or silicone spray on fabric/synthetic
boots. Set them aside to dry.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 1
MWS 1 Worksheet
6.
How can blisters be prevented while backpacking?

Reduce friction by wearing good socks and broken-in
boots. Wear thickly cushioned synthetic or wool socks,
not cotton. Keep your feet dry. Stop often on hikes to
check for hot spots and to air out your feet.
7.
What is the first aid treatment for blisters?

Cover red spots with moleskin ir first aid tape to reduce
friction and prevent fluid buildup. Dab rubbing alcohol to
dry it out. If you need to prick the fluid-filled sac, use a
sterilized needle. Apply antiseptic and cover the blister
with moleskin or a bandage.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 9
Explain the difference between at least
two major types of packs used in
backpacking. Explain the advantages
and disadvantages of each. Explain why
you chose the pack you did. Would you
choose a different pack if you could
afford it? If so, what kind and why?
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
Three types of backpacks.




External frame.
Internal frame.
Dayback.
Differences between two major types of
backpacks.



External frame is the best choice for level terrain or
established trails.
Internal frame is the best choice for uneven terrain.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
External frame advantages.









Moderate cost, good value.
Wide variety of features available.
Highest load and weight capacity of any type.
Load rides high up and directly over hips for better load
support.
Best for developed trails and level terrain.
Good protection from weather.
Good for extended trips/trekking.
Lots of pockets for items needing quick access.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
External frame advantages (continued).





Many places to strap on different items to the outside of
the pack.
Cooler in hot weather due to frame holding pack away
from body, allowing air circulation.
Easier to fit body size with most model, fewer adjustments
needed.
Lighter than comparable internal frame type.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
External frame disadvantages.






More bulky appearance.
More difficult to stow in car trunk or canoe/kayak.
Higher center of gravity creates less maneuverability on
uneven/steep terrain.
Tendency to catch brush and low hanging tree branches
on frame while on narrow or undeveloped trails.
Top of pack tends to sway left and right when walking.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
Internal frame advantages.








Very good load and weight capacity, though not as high as
external frame type.
Very good for extended trips.
Best choice for heavily wooded, narrow, and undeveloped
trails or rough terrain.
Very good protection from weather.
Maneuvers well on uneven or steep terrain due to lower
pack balance point.
Keeps center of gravity lower and more natural.
When properly fitted, contours well to body.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
Internal frame advantages (continued).





Lighter weight than external frame type.
Best for trekking in snow and in mountains, cross-country
skiing.
Stows well in canoes/kayaks or car trunks.
Withstands airline baggage handling well.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
Internal frame disadvantages.







Highest cost of any type.
Load capacity not quite as high as most external frame
types.
Items not as conveniently accessible; need to unpack
most items to get to bottom of pack.
Heavier weight of pack itself.
Hotter and sweatier against your back.
More difficult to fit perfectly to different body shapes;
precise adjustments needed.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
Internal frame disadvantages
(continued).


More difficult to load for proper load distribution.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
Daypack advantages.





Good for small loads.
Lowest cost of all types.
Lightest weight, least bulky to carry.
Adequate for day hikes or short overnight trips that don’t
require foot travel.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
Requirement 9
Daypack disadvantages.





Lowest weight and load-carrying capacity.
Not suitable for trips requiring extended trekking.
No external or internal support frame to balance or support
loads.
Least protection from weather.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Properly load your backpack for an
overnight backpacking trip. Load your
own gear and your share of the patrol
equipment and food. Point out where
heavy items should go and identify the
items placed on top or placed for easy
access while on the trail.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Required equipment.
Cooking:

Fire starter.

Cooking kit.

Cooking utensils.

Eating utensils.

Drinking cup.

Plate or bowl.

Biodegradable soap.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Required equipment.
Food:

Enough for all meals eaten on the trip.

Instant drink/tea mix.

Trail snack.

Water purification tablets.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Required equipment.
Sleeping:

Sleeping bag.

Foam sleeping pad.

Tent.

Plastic ground tarp.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Required equipment.
Clothing:

Hiking boots.

Socks, three pair.

Two changes of clothing.

Raincoat/poncho.

Hat.

Light jacket or sweater.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Required equipment.
Personal:

Toothbrush.

Toothpaste.

Towel.

Biodegradable soap/shampoo.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Required equipment.
Miscellaneous:

Pocket knife.

Plastic zip-lock bags.

Canteen or water bottle.

Compass

Map.

Whistle.

Sunscreen.

Insect repellent.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Required equipment.
Miscellaneous (continued):

Toilet paper.

Flashlight or headlamp.

Extra set of batteries.

First aid kit.

Blister kit.

Survival kit.

Fifty feet of twine or cord.

Small bible.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2

Requirement 10
Where to pack these items in an external
frame pack.
Sleeping bag:

Strapped outside at the bottom of the pack.
Cookware, food bags:

Inside, higher toward the top and closer to the body.
Clothing, light items:

Inside, lower toward the bottom and away from the body.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
MWS 2 Worksheet
1.
What are the three major types of backpacks?

External frame.

Internal frame.

Daypack.
2.
Which one is the best all-around choice for level terrain or
established trails?

External frame.
3.
Which one is the best all-around choice for uneven terrain or
established trails?

Internal frame.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
MWS 2 Worksheet
4.
List some advantages and disadvantages of the externalframe backpack.

Refer to requirement 9.
5.
List some advantages and disadvantages of the internalframe backpack.

Refer to requirement 9.
6.
List seven important items that should be packed for a twoday backpacking trip and the reasons why each should be
included.

Refer to requirement 10.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
MWS 2 Worksheet
7.
Explain how and where to pack these items in an externalframe backpack.
Sleeping bag:

Strapped outside at the bottom of the pack.
Cookware, food bags:

Inside, higher toward the top and closer to the body.
Clothing, light items:

Inside, lower toward the bottom and away from the body.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
MWS 2 Worksheet
Map, compass, water bottle:

In inside pockets or at the very top inside the backpack.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 2
MWS 3 Worksheet
Find and circle all these hidden words in the word search that
refer to backpacking.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3

Requirement 6
List the possible dangerous plants,
insects, snakes , and other animals you
may encounter while hiking. Explain
what you should do if these dangers are
encountered. In the field, identify one of
these dangers.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
Requirement 6
Poisonous plants.


Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.
Venomous snakes.


Rattlesnake, coral snake, copperhead, and water
moccasin.
Dangerous animals.


Black bear, coyote, and skunk.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
Requirement 6
Hazardous insects.


Mosquito, honeybee, black widow spider, scorpion, and
dog tick.
If you encounter any of these dangerous
plants or animals:



Back away and avoid contact.
Get medical help if bitten, stung, or injured.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
Requirement 7
Explain the danger of dehydration.


You could become very sick or even die from lack of water.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
Requirement 8
Explain two ways to purify water and why
purification is necessary.



Boiling, with chemicals, or with a filtration pump.
Purification is necessary to avoid contaminants and germs
that could make you sick.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
MWS 4 Worksheet
1.
Name two poisonous plants to be avoided.

Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac.
2.
Name two venomous snakes to be avoided.

Rattlesnake, coral snake, copperhead, and water
moccasin.
3.
Name two dangerous animals to be avoided.

Answers will vary.
4.
Name two hazardous insects to be avoided.

Answers will vary.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
MWS 4 Worksheet
5.
Explain what to do when you encounter one of these
dangerous plants or animals.

Back away and avoid eye contact. Get medical treatment
if bitten, stung, or injured.
6.
Name two of the three major methods of purifying water while
out on the trail.

Boiling, with chemicals, or with a filtration pump.
7.
Explain why purifying water is necessary.

To avoid contaminants and germs that could make you
sick.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
MWS 4 Worksheet
8.
Explain why dehydration is potentially dangerous.

You could become very sick or even die from a lack of
water.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 3
MWS 5 Worksheet
Identify natures dangers. Draw a line to connect the word to
theRattlesnake
correct picture.
Scorpion
Coyote
Black Bear
Honeybee
Skunk
Mosquito
Poison Ivy
Poison Sumac
Poison Oak
Black Widow
Spider
Dog Tick
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4

Requirement 5
Explain how to choose a campsite.
Discuss the following topics:
A.
B.
C.
D.
Environmental concerns, such as choosing a well-used site
versus one showing little use.
Temperature variations in different topographical features and
elevations, such as valleys versus mountaintops.
Considerations of wind and storm direction that can affect your
choice of campsite.
Determine if it is necessary to camp by a water source or if it is
more a matter of convenience. List the possible dangers you
should consider.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
Requirement 5
What to look for.





Established or previously used camping sites to minimize
the impact on the environment.
Flat area free of rocks and roots and large enough to
spread a tent, although a slight slope would still be
acceptable for sleeping on.
Broad, flat rock or mineral soil to set up a kitchen or a
campfire ring.
Pine grove with a layer of needles on the forest floor or a
healthy grassy area – provides a dry and soft cushion for
sleeping on.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
Requirement 5
What to look for (continued).





Trees or large rocks for protection from the sun and heavy
winds, but open enough to allow a breeze to cool the
campsite on hot days and to blow away mosquitoes.
Nearby water source, preferably two hundred to three
hundred feet away.
Barren ground above tree line on mountains.
Eastern facing location to warm up the tent and campsite
in the morning and to evaporate the dew.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
Requirement 5
Campsites to avoid.




Game trails so bears or other animals don’t walk into
camp.
Tops of exposed ridges and hills or open and unsheltered
basins.
Bottoms of valleys and canyons because of flowing
rainwater after storms, even storms a long distance away;
plus cooling evening air flows or settles to the bottom after
sundown, creating cooler breezes and a rapid temperature
drop.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
Requirement 5
Campsites to avoid (continued).







Dried streambeds, gullies, and narrow canyons; stay
above previous water level indicators.
Wooded areas with lots of dying, dead, or fallen trees or
branches lying on the ground – indicator that more could
fall.
Unsheltered, open areas.
Edge or banks of water source.
Against bottom of rocky slopes.
Treeless corridors or bent vegitation below snowfields.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4

Requirement 11
Explain the different ways that trails are
marked and how painted markers can
warn you of a sharp turn in the trail.
Define cairn.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
Requirement 11
Ways of marking trails.





Blazes are trampled or cut vegetation that mark a
pathway.
Signs, posts, streamers, flags, or other devices that mark
the route.
Paint marks of arrows or lines on trees or rocks that
indicate the direction or turn the trail takes.
Sticks arranged on the ground that point the direction to
travel.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
Requirement 11
Cairns.


A cairn is a small pyramidal pile of rocks on the ground
that has a large rock on the bottom and increasingly
smaller ones going up toward the top of the pile.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
MWS 6 Worksheet
1.
List five things that would make a good campsite location.

Refer to requirement 5.
2.
List five things that would make a bad campsite location.

Refer to requirement 5.
3.
List two ways of marking trails.

Refer to requirement 11.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
MWS 6 Worksheet
4.
List three minimum-impact camping techniques.

Select an established or previously used campsite. Stay
on established trails. Don’t cut switchback trails on steep
slopes. Return any rocks that you move to their original
location. Leave no signs of your campsite. Don’t cut live
vegetation or trees. Burn or carry out all trash. Don’t
wash yourself or clothing or equipment directly in a
source. Use lightweight shoes, moccasins, or sandals in
or around your campsite. Always walk in a single file
down trails to avoid stepping off-trail.
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 4
MWS 6 Worksheet
Leave no sign of your passing down a trial. Don’t bring
noisy electronics. Leave a campsite area better than you
found it.
5.
Explain what a cairn is.

A cairn is a small pyramidal pile of rocks on the ground
that has a large rock on the bottom and increasingly
smaller ones going up toward the top of the pile.

Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 5

Requirement 12
Plan and take a two-day trip under adult
supervision. Leave a trip plan with
someone at home. The trip should
include the following:
A.
A detailed plan of your trip, including the names of the
trails you plan to use, where
Green Backpacking Merit
Lesson 5
Requirement 12
B.
C.
D.
Alternate or escape plans in case the trip does not go as
intended.
Mileage and altitude to be covered each day.
Where help can be found or obtained in case of an
emergency. This should include phones, hospitals, and
other places where help can be found.