It's been a long time (26+ years) since I was involved with the Boy
Scouts but I do believe it was not a merit badge that exposed us to this
method--more like tenderfoot/first class/second class (?) where it was
introduced.

I gather a lot of things have changed with the Scouts since then...

-----Original Message-----
From: Pam Blythe [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 1998 4:35 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: PM/Estimating


Ken -

The "trick" of measuring a tree without aid of a mechanical measuring
device is still a requirement for the Orienteering merit badge - one
that's
not an Eagle requirement, but usually is highly recommended (at least in
our neck of the woods).  Since orienteering is not considered one of the
trades, I think this technique will safely continue to be taught for
another generation.  Perhaps its inclusion in this merit badge is as a
precursor to understanding a sextant (hence the connection to those
Sumerians).

I also think the latest merit badge to be threatened is Rabbit Husbandry
(or whatever it's called).  Not too many Rabbit Stew Dinners are given
anymore, but Spaghetti Dinners are rampant fund raisers.  Perhaps a new
Pasta Making merit badge is in the works.
- Pam