Forest Survival Challenge

*Leader Plan* **Preparation (15 minutes before session):** Set up four stations around the outdoor area: water procurement, shelter building, fire starting, and plant identification. Gather natural materials like dry tinder, kindling, branches, leaves, and stones. Prepare laminated cards showing edible vs poisonous plants. Hide water source markers and place compasses at navigation points. **Opening Circle (10 minutes):** Gather scouts and introduce the survival scenario - they are lost in the forest and must work together to survive until rescue arrives. Explain the four main survival priorities: shelter, water, fire, and food. Divide into teams of 4-5 scouts and assign team leaders. **Station Rotation (80 minutes - 20 minutes per station):** **Station 1: Water Procurement** Teach scouts to identify water sources by looking for animal tracks, green vegetation, and listening for water sounds. Demonstrate basic water collection methods using tarps and containers. Practice the solar still technique using clear plastic and containers. **Station 2: Shelter Construction** Show lean-to shelter design using fallen branches against a tree. Guide teams in building their own shelters, emphasizing insulation from ground and wind protection. Test shelters by having scouts crawl inside. **Station 3: Fire Starting** Demonstrate bow drill technique step-by-step. Provide pre-made bow drill sets and tinder. Allow each scout to attempt fire starting. Show alternative methods like flint and steel as backup. **Station 4: Plant Identification** Use identification cards to teach local edible plants like dandelions, clover, and wild berries. Emphasize the universal rule: "When in doubt, don't eat it." Practice identifying plants around the area. **Navigation Challenge (15 minutes):** Teams use compasses and natural landmarks to find three hidden markers around the site. Each marker contains a "survival supply" token they'll need for the final challenge. **Final Team Challenge (20 minutes):** Teams must demonstrate all learned skills by building a mini survival camp. Each team presents their shelter, explains their water source, shows fire-starting materials, and identifies three safe plants. **Closing Reflection (10 minutes):** Gather in circle to discuss what they learned, which skills felt most challenging, and how teamwork helped them succeed. Present certificates or badges if part of advancement program.