Properties

Empowering council operations: understanding the Council Facility Evaluation Tool (CFET)

As Scouting America continues to strengthen the impact of its programs across the country, the Council Facility Evaluation Tool (CFET) has emerged as a critical asset for local councils aiming to enhance the safety, effectiveness, and sustainability of their camp and facility operations.

What is the CFET?

The Council Facility Evaluation Tool (CFET) is a standardized assessment instrument developed by the National Council to help local councils evaluate the condition, usage, and long-term viability of their camps and properties. It provides a comprehensive framework for assessing a facility’s physical infrastructure, programming capacity, and alignment with strategic Scouting goals.

CFET is part of Scouting America’s broader commitment to responsible stewardship, safety, and strategic planning. The tool was designed not only to identify immediate maintenance or safety issues but also to support long-term planning and data-informed decisions about the future of council-owned facilities.

Key Components of CFET

The CFET covers several critical domains, including:

Facilities Condition Assessment: A detailed look at the physical state of buildings, infrastructure, and utilities.

Usage and Capacity: Evaluation of how often and how effectively properties are being used for council and district programming.

Program Alignment: An assessment of whether current facilities support the types of programs that meet youth needs and align with Scouting America’s mission.

Risk and Safety: Identification of hazards and compliance with health and safety regulations.

Financial Sustainability: Analysis of operational costs, income potential, and long-term viability.

Each domain includes a rubric-based scoring system to ensure consistent and objective evaluations across councils.

Why CFET Matters

For Scouting America professionals—especially those involved in operations, camping, property management, and executive leadership—the CFET is a valuable decision-support tool. It can do the following:

Identifies critical needs before they become costly problems.

Supports strategic property planning, including closures, renovations, or reimagining the use of facilities.

Promotes transparency and consistency in council-level facility management.

Provides data to support fundraising, grant applications, and board presentations.

Strengthens youth program delivery by ensuring facilities meet modern needs and expectations.

How It’s Used

Scouting America encourages councils to use CFET on a regular basis, such as every three to five years, or in conjunction with key strategic planning efforts. During the Summer is a great time to update the CFET especial if the camp encounters hard winters. The evaluation process typically involves a multidisciplinary team including council staff, volunteers, engineers, architects, and health/safety professionals. Some councils also partner with the national service center or regional support teams for additional guidance.

Once completed, the CFET report becomes a living document—guiding improvement plans, investment priorities, and policy development around council facilities.

Conclusion

The Council Facility Evaluation Tool represents more than just a checklist—it’s a strategic asset for every council seeking to ensure its properties are safe, functional, mission-aligned, and financially sound. By using the CFET proactively, council volunteers and employees can play a pivotal role in building the foundation—literally and figuratively—for a strong future in Scouting.

Safety

Fireworks and pyrotechnics prohibited in Scouting America

Scouting America places the highest priority on the safety and well-being of its youth members, volunteers, and staff. To uphold this commitment, the use of fireworks and pyrotechnics is strictly prohibited during any Scouting activity. This clear directive is outlined in the Guide to Safe Scouting, the official safety resource for all Scouting programs. According to the online edition of the guide, “Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited in connection with programs and activities”.

This prohibition applies universally across all Scouting settings, including council camps, unit campouts, community events, and family Scouting activities. Fireworks, even when used under adult supervision, present significant safety hazards such as burns, accidental fires, hearing loss, and serious injuries. By eliminating these risks, Scouting America ensures that all activities remain focused on age-appropriate, controlled, and educational experiences that promote learning and fun in a safe environment.

Beyond personal safety, the ban on fireworks supports Scouting America’s strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Fireworks can ignite wildfires, especially in dry or forested areas where many camps are located. Additionally, the debris and chemical residue from fireworks pollute natural spaces, contradicting the principles of conservation and Leave No Trace that are central to the Scouting philosophy. The policy helps protect ecosystems while teaching Scouts to act as responsible caretakers of the land.

To help maintain the celebratory spirit of certain events without endangering participants or the environment, Scouting leaders are encouraged to find creative alternatives to fireworks. Light shows using flashlights, glow sticks, or LED displays, as well as engaging campfire programs with songs, skits, and storytelling, can create memorable experiences that are both entertaining and safe. These alternatives promote teamwork and imagination—hallmarks of the Scouting experience—while adhering to established safety guidelines.

Ultimately, Scouting America’s prohibition on fireworks and pyrotechnics reinforces the organization’s core values of safety, responsibility, and environmental respect. Adherence to this policy, as outlined in the Guide to Safe Scouting, is essential to maintaining a secure environment where youth can thrive and grow. Leaders, parents, and Scouts alike share in the responsibility of upholding these standards, ensuring that Scouting remains a trusted and enriching program for all.

Safety

Join Scouting America in observing National Safety Month

Every June, communities across the country come together to focus on a shared mission: preventing injuries and saving lives. Since 1996, the National Safety Council (NSC) has led the charge with National Safety Month (NSM)—a month-long observance dedicated to reducing the leading causes of preventable injury and death, both on and off the job. This year, Scouting America is proud to stand with the NSC in promoting safety awareness that reaches from the workplace to the outdoors, and everywhere in between.

Stay Safe at Work and Beyond

Preventable injuries remain one of the leading causes of death in the United States. As Scouts, leaders, volunteers, and families, we understand the value of preparation and care. By participating in National Safety Month, we’re making a commitment—to ourselves and our communities—to create safer environments for everyone.

This June, let’s embrace the principles of the Scout Oath and Law by taking action that protects lives and promotes well-being. Whether we’re organizing troop outings, running day camps, or simply going about our daily routines, safety starts with awareness and smart decision-making.

2025 Weekly Safety Topics

The NSC will offer free downloadable materials throughout June, focusing on a new safety theme each week. These resources are perfect for Scout meetings, safety merit badge discussions, and community outreach:

Week 1: Safety Engagement
Learn how to involve everyone in creating safer spaces—at camp, at home, and in your community.

Week 2: Roadway Safety
Discover key tips for staying safe on the road—whether you’re behind the wheel or on a bike.

Week 3: Risk Reduction
Identify and mitigate risks in your surroundings, from campsite hazards to common household dangers.

Week 4: Slips, Trips and Falls
Understand how to prevent these common yet serious accidents, especially in active outdoor environments.

Sign Up for Free Safety Resources

Get ready for a safer summer! Sign up today with the National Safety Council to receive alerts as soon as your free 2025 safety materials are available. These tools are designed to empower Scouts, leaders, and families with practical knowledge to stay safe during National Safety Month—and all year long.

Let’s work together to live out the Scout Motto—Be Prepared—by making safety a top priority in everything we do.

https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/safety-moments/

https://www.nsc.org/faforms/national-safety-month-materials

Aquatics

New Aquatics Supervision Manual now available

During water safety month this May, Scouting America is proud to announce the release of the newly updated Aquatics Supervision Manual, a critical resource for anyone involved in delivering safe, engaging, and high-quality aquatics programming.

Aquatic activities are a core part of the Scouting experience—from swimming and canoeing to paddleboarding and snorkeling—and ensuring they are conducted safely and effectively is essential. This revised manual reflects the most up-to-date guidance, training standards, and best practices, empowering unit leaders, camp staff, and volunteers to lead with confidence on and around the water.

This update would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the Scouting America Aquatics Committee. Their expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to safety and program excellence have resulted in a comprehensive resource that supports our mission of delivering life-changing outdoor experiences. We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation for their work in making this manual both practical and mission-aligned.

The Aquatics Supervision Manual is now available online and can be accessed here:
Download the Manual (PDF)

We encourage all leaders, instructors, and program facilitators to review the manual and incorporate it into their planning and training efforts. Together, we can continue to build a culture of safety and excellence in every aquatics program across Scouting America.

Let’s keep making a splash—for all the right reasons!

Cub Scouting

Promoting outdoor activities for Cub Scouts during National Great Outdoors Month

June is National Great Outdoors Month—a perfect opportunity for Scouting America councils to energize and engage Cub Scouts with the wonder and excitement of the outdoors. Local councils play a critical role in shaping memorable and educational experiences that foster a lifelong appreciation for nature and outdoor recreation. During National Great Outdoors Month, councils can highlight the values of Scouting while encouraging families to participate in activities that promote healthy lifestyles, environmental stewardship, and teamwork.

One of the most effective ways councils can celebrate National Great Outdoors Month is by organizing family-friendly events that emphasize exploration and adventure. Local parks, nature centers, and Scout camps offer ideal venues for day hikes, scavenger hunts, fishing clinics, and introductory camping experiences. These events provide a structured, safe environment for young Scouts and their families to develop foundational outdoor skills in a fun and accessible way.

Councils should also consider launching themed outdoor challenges that align with existing Cub Scout advancement requirements. For example, dens can work toward badges such as “Call of the Wild” or “Paws on the Path” through well-planned outdoor programs. Challenges that include tracking hikes with GPS, nature journaling, or birdwatching can make the experience more interactive while reinforcing important Scouting principles like preparedness, respect for wildlife, and Leave No Trace ethics.

Partnering with community organizations and local businesses can further expand the scope and visibility of these activities. Nature conservancies, outdoor retailers, and local fire or police departments may be eager to support Scouting events with gear donations, guest demonstrations, or co-sponsored educational booths. These partnerships not only enrich the Scouts’ experience but also strengthen community ties and raise public awareness about the benefits of youth participation in outdoor recreation.

Councils should also harness the power of digital communication to spread the word. Creating a dedicated National Great Outdoors Month page on the council website, promoting events on social media, and sharing testimonials or photos from past outdoor events can boost participation. Highlighting stories of Cub Scouts overcoming challenges or trying something new outdoors can inspire others to get involved and spark enthusiasm among new families.

Another key strategy is providing resources and ideas for unit leaders and parents to organize their own local adventures. Creating a downloadable guide or calendar of suggested activities—such as backyard camping, bug safaris, or outdoor cooking—empowers families to take initiative, especially if they can’t attend council-hosted events. Encouraging dens to share their activities in a council-wide photo contest or story map can create a sense of connection and friendly competition.

To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, councils should be mindful of different skill levels, physical abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds when planning events. Offering loaner gear, transportation support, and a range of activity intensities allows more Cub Scouts to participate. When families feel welcome and supported, they’re more likely to engage repeatedly and become long-term members of the Scouting community.

Finally, councils should emphasize the long-term value of outdoor experiences by connecting National Great Outdoors Month activities to year-round programs. Promoting summer day camps, weekend overnighters, or specialized outdoor workshops during June helps maintain momentum and gives families additional opportunities to stay engaged. This forward-looking approach builds a stronger culture of outdoor involvement within local packs and dens.

National Great Outdoors Month is more than a calendar event—it’s a chance to reignite the spirit of discovery in every Cub Scout. By thoughtfully planning inclusive, adventurous, and educational outdoor activities, Scouting America councils can fulfill the movement’s mission of preparing youth for a lifetime of leadership and service, all while fostering a deep and lasting bond with the natural world.

National Outdoor Conference

Registration for the 2025 National Outdoor Conference is now open

Want to be in the know about all things in outdoor programs? Registration for the 2025 National Outdoor Conference is now open. Taking place at Philmont Scout Ranch September 17-21, 2025, this is the preeminent conference for volunteers and professionals who support and manage outdoor programs and properties in Scouting America. The National Outdoor Conference features elective sessions, outstanding keynote speakers, vendor exhibits, and fellowship with Scouting’s top outdoor leaders. This year’s theme is Rooted in the Outdoors: Scouting’s Path Forward.

This year’s conference will focus on five key areas:  

Leading Youth Safety Forward
This track equips camp leaders with the knowledge and tools to make safety a top priority in all aspects of camp operations. Sessions will focus on best practices for safeguarding youth, enhancing staff training, and fostering a culture of physical, emotional, and mental safety at camp.
Change and Improve the Way We Work Together
Focusing on collaboration, this track offers strategies to improving collaboration across all levels of the organization, including between local councils and camp operations.
Make Our Programs Highly Relevant to Today’s Youth
This track will explore ways to refresh camp programs to better align with the interests, values, and expectations of today’s youth. Sessions will provide actionable ideas for incorporating modern technology, innovative activities, and youth-driven programming into the outdoor experience.
Broaden Our Appeal and Revitalize Our Brand
This track helps camp leaders enhance outreach efforts and boost the Scouting America camping and outdoor image within their communities, both internal and external. Participants will learn strategies for attracting a more diverse group of campers, engaging new audiences, and positioning their camp as a must-attend experience for youth.
Strengthen Our Financial Position
Designed for council and camp leadership looking to build financial sustainability, this track covers topics like increasing camp attendance, improving fundraising efforts, and maximizing resource efficiency. Leaders will leave with practical tools to secure their camp’s financial future.

Attendees can choose from several options for conference fees and housing – Roofed, deluxe tent platform tent or staying off site. Roofed housing and “deluxe tent” options are limited. Register early if you are interested in these options. Housing is multiple person occupancy. Costs range from $350 – $505 for the National Outdoor Conference depending on your housing choice. Registration fees include housing, meals, conference gift and supplies. Additional preconference options are available as well – preconference workshop costs vary. Individuals who register for the National Outdoor Conference by June 30th will receive a special custom National Outdoor Conference gift!  

Click here to register now for the 2025 National Outdoor Conference! Questions? Email outdoorprograms@scouting.org. 

Camping

Retaining your summer camp staff: strategies for 2026 and beyond

You may be just beginning your summer season or maybe it has not even started. You may still be looking for that last piece of the puzzle for this summer, but it is not too early to begin thinking about summer 2026. We know that staffing a great summer camp is no small feat but retaining that team for the following year is even harder. As Camp Directors, we often spend months assembling a high-quality staff, only to start from scratch again the next year. But what if this summer, you could lay the foundation for a solid 2026 staff?

Just like college sports teams constantly recruit their next class of talent, so must we. Top-tier football programs don’t just recruit in the spring, they build relationships, maintain engagement, and secure early commitments. Camp staffing is no different. If you want your best area directors, kitchen leads, lifeguards, and program staff back next summer, you need to start now.

Let’s talk about some tips to help you in that goal.

1. Start the 2026 Recruiting Now—During the season.

Don’t wait until fall or winter to start thinking about next summer. While your staff is still on-site, enthusiastic, and immersed in the magic of camp, start having 1-on-1 conversations. Ask questions like:

“Would you consider coming back next year?”

“What role would you be interested in for 2026?”

“What can we do to make it even better for you next time?”

Even informal conversations signal that you’re thinking long-term—and that you value them as more than just this season’s hire.

Pro Tip: Keep a simple spreadsheet or shared doc tracking who’s indicated interest in 2026. It will save you a lot of headaches come the fall/winter.

2. Secure Early Commitments—And Make It Official

Once someone says, “Yes, I’m in for next year,” capture that commitment. Whether it’s a Letter of Intent, a simple form, or a pre-application, make it feel official.

Consider perks for early commitment:

Early selection of job roles or program areas.

First pick on housing or program area.

Exclusive swag or gear for early staff commitment

A “Veteran Staff” leadership retreat or online leadership cohort in the off-season.

An invite to a couple special events for camp staff alumni.

Opportunities for staff scholarships based on tenure.

3. Keep Recruiting Like a College Coach

Remember: commitment doesn’t mean it’s locked in. In college athletics, verbal commitments still require nurturing. Coaches send notes, highlight reels, and stay in touch.

You should too.

Send a fall postcard or holiday card from camp.

Share monthly staff updates or “camp countdown” emails.

Use social media or other platforms to stay connected as a staff.

Highlight returning staff in social media: “Excited to have Emma back for her third year on the waterfront team!”

Send a “highlight” reel of the staff slide show (you know you have one at the closing banquet) to your staff right before staff applications are due to remind them of the fun of camp.

This continual engagement builds loyalty—and keeps your camp top of mind as life moves on.

4. Off-Season Engagement: Build a Year-Round Staff Culture

Most of your staff are young adults who thrive on community and connection. Don’t let that die in August.

Ideas for year-round engagement:

Virtual reunions or hangouts: Host Zoom trivia nights or share “Throwback Thursday” memories.

Leadership development: Invite staff to virtual workshops, online merit badge training, or planning committees.

In-person meetups: If geography allows, organize a regional weekend hike, service project, or alumni dinner.

Feature their stories: Ask staff to write blog posts or take over your social media for a day.

And most importantly—ask for their input on how to make next summer better. This creates investment and shows you value their voice.

5. Keep Recruiting Outside Too

Just like sports programs are always scouting the next generation, so should you. Encourage your current staff to be your ambassadors. Offer incentives for referrals and stay in touch with CITs and volunteers from this year.

Be present at colleges, high schools, and community events this fall, not next spring. Great staffers don’t show up overnight—they grow through relationships.

One last thing

Camp doesn’t end in August. At least, not for you. If you want 2026 to be your strongest summer yet, treat your staff like the long-term team they are. Nurture them. Recruit them. Celebrate them. And remind them why they matter—every single month between now and Opening Day 2026.

Let’s build a camp culture that keeps the best coming back year after year.

National Jamboree

Welcome Bill Beaumont: Our New National Scout Jamboree Director

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you: Bill Beaumont has officially joined us as the Director of the 2026 National Scout Jamboree.

If you haven’t met Bill yet, you’re in for a treat. He brings with him a deep love for the outdoors, the Jamboree, and a resume full Scouting experience. With his energy and vision, we know the Jamboree is in good hands.

He’s spent time in the field and in the office but in the end he has a clear passion for making unforgettable outdoor experiences happen for young people.

As we gear up for the 2026 National Scout Jamboree, we know how important this event is — not just for participants, but for the movement as a whole. It’s our chance to show thousands of youth what Scouting is all about: adventure, community, challenge, and growth.

Bill gets that. In fact, he’s lived it.

He’s led summer camps for thousands of campers, developed high-adventure programming, and mentored countless volunteers and staff along the way. He understands the scale and complexity of the Jamboree — but more importantly, he understands why it matters.

You’ll be hearing a lot more from Bill in the months ahead. He’s hitting the ground running meeting the team, developing plans, and working closely with staff and volunteers across the country to make sure the 2026 Jamboree will ELEVATE Scouting in all aspects.

Please join us in welcoming Bill Beaumont to his new role. We’re excited for what’s ahead — and we’re grateful to have such a passionate, experienced, and mission-driven leader guiding the way.

If you have any questions about the Jamboree visit the Jamboree website at https://jamboree.scouting.org/.
If you have not registered for the Jamboree – What are you waiting for? Register for staff at https://jamboree.scouting.org/ or for a contingent with your local council. See you in 2026.

2025 May-June Edition

Properties

Empowering council operations: understanding the Council Facility Evaluation Tool (CFET)

Safety

Fireworks and pyrotechnics prohibited in Scouting America

Safety

Join Scouting America in observing National Safety Month

Aquatics

New Aquatics Supervision Manual now available

Cub Scouting

Promoting outdoor activities for Cub Scouts during National Great Outdoors Month

National Outdoor Conference

Registration for the 2025 National Outdoor Conference is now open

Camping

Retaining your summer camp staff: strategies for 2026 and beyond

National Jamboree

Welcome Bill Beaumont: Our New National Scout Jamboree Director

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