Backpacking





1.  Do the following: [a] List 10 items which are essential to be carried

     on any overnight backpacking trek and explain why each item is

     necessary. [b] Describe 10 ways you can limit the weight and bulk to

     be carried in your pack without jeopardizing your health or safety.



2.  Do the following: [a] Define limits on the number of backpacker crew.

     [b] Explain the reason for the upper limit and the lower limit in a

     backpacking crew.



3.  Tell environmental considerations that are important for backpackers

     and describe five ways to lessen their impact on the environment.

     Describe proper methods for disposing of solid and liquid wastes.



4.  Demonstrate two ways to purify water and tell why water purification

     is essential.



5.  Demonstrate that you can read topographic maps. While on a hike, use

     a map and compass to establish your position on the terrain at random

     times and places.



6.  Tell how to prepare properly for and deal with inclement weather while

     on a backpacking trek.



7.  Do the following: [a] Describe prevention, symptoms, and treatment for

     first aid situations that are most likely to occur on a backpacking

     trek. [b] Tell first aid considerations for cold, hot, wet, and dry

     weather traveling.



8.  Do the following: [a] Explain the advantages and disadvantages of three

     different types of backpacking stoves using at least three different

     types of fuel. [b] Demonstrate that you know how to operate a back-

     packing stove safely and to handle liquid fuel safely. [c] Prepare at

     least three meals using a stove and fuel you can carry in a backpack.



9.  Do the following: [a] Plan a patrol backpacking hike. [b] Properly pack

     your own gear and your share of the crew equipment and food. Protect

     it against inclement weather. Show that your pack allows you to get

     quickly to items you may need on the trail and provides for comfort,

     balance, and neatness. Show how to use effectively a pack frame and

     hip strap to distribute the weight on your body. [c] Conduct a prehike

     inspection of the patrol and its equipment. [d] Carrying your pack,

     complete a hike of at least 2 miles.



10. Take three backpacking treks. Each must consist of at least 3 days

     duration with two different overnight campsites, and each cover at

     least 15 miles. Carry everything you will need throughout the trek.



11. Do the following: [a] In addition, assist in planning and take a back-

     pack trek of at least 5 days with at least three different campsites,

     and covering at least 30 miles. Your written plan submitted to your

     counselor must include route, food and menus, equipment, and emergency

     notification. Prepare light-weight, reasonably priced trail menus.

     Carry everything you need throughout the entire trek. [b] On

     returning, tell what you did to get in shape for this trek and

     how you might do it differently again.