SCOUTS BSA
TROOP 490

A: Absolutely! As long as they are 11 years old and not yet 18, or 10 years old and have finished fifth grade.

A: There is a yearly Recharter membership fee $66, optional Boys Life subscription for $12, and Troop dues of $50. The Recharter fee goes directly to the council. The Dues stay in the troop to help pay for rank badges, class B shirt, handbook, insignia, etc. the troop provides to your son when he joins.

A: Each scout should have at least the uniform shirt, and by the time they reach the rank of First Class they should have acquired the full uniform (great present idea). We do have some outgrown uniform shirts and pants - just see a leader to ask about this

For more information about uniform guidelines visit here.

A: Well, yes and no. Most of our scouts are also in sports, band, church youth groups and other activities. Since our program takes place all year round, there is always an opportunity for a youth to do Scouting, too. Many of our past Eagle Scouts have been very active in other extracurricular activities such as sports or music.

A: Yes! We encourage families to participate in their Scout's activities. Younger siblings must be accompanied by a parent. On occasion we do an outing that is restricted to Boy Scouts due to space requirements or the facility's rules.

A: The leadership of Troop 490 takes your scout's safety very seriously. All leaders are subjected to a criminal background check by Prairielands Council upon joining and annually beyond that. All leaders must also complete Youth Protection Training through National BSA before being allowed to register. Other trainings include Position Specific Training, Outdoor Leader Skills, Safety Afloat, Wilderness First Aid, and Hazardous Weather. Most trainings must be renewed every two years. For more information on the BSA's guidelines for protecting our youth visit their youth protection site. If you have specific concerns, reach out to the Scoutmaster or Committee Chair.