Scouting and Natural Basingstoke
The Natural Basingstoke Nature Champion Badge
Interested in wildlife and nature? Enjoy being outdoors? Like doing science projects? Why not complete the Natural Basingstoke Nature Champion Badge – there’s something for everyone.
This badge involves hands-on learning and active participation in conservation efforts, inspiring Scouts of all ages to engage with and appreciate the natural environment in and around Basingstoke.
The new badge has five parts……….
Part 1 – Complete a practical activity
What will I do?
With a local NB conservation group, take part in at least two local conservation projects, such as tree planting, habitat restoration or litter clean-up.
Reflect on the importance of these activities and how they contribute to the local ecosystem:
- Think about how you felt before, during and after the sessions.
- Share your experience with your scout group or leader verbally or creatively.
- Provide before and after photographs showing what your tasks achieved.
- Tell your scout group or leader what else you learnt about the site.
How do I get started?
Speak to your leader, to find a local group that you can help.
Part 2 – Conduct a Citizen Science project
What will I do?
Take part in a citizen science project to understand that impact humans are having on nature. You could get involved with a national project (such as the Big Garden Bird Watch or the Big Butterfly Count) or a local project (such as a site survey with one of NB’s local experts).
Share, with your scout group or leader, verbally or creatively what projects you helped with, what it involved and what the results showed.
How do I get started?
Do some research to find a suitable project and agree it with your leader. Some ideas can be found here: Random Acts of Wildness
Part 3 – Complete a project at home
What will I do?
Implement at least three sustainable practices in your daily life, such as recycling, reducing water usage, using eco-friendly products, or helping nature thrive in your garden.
Keep a journal of your efforts and the impact they have on your environment.
Show your group or leader what you’ve done at home to help wildlife
How do I get started?
Do some research to find a suitable activity and agree it with your leader. Some ideas can be found here: Random Acts of Wildness
If you fancy having a go at composting, some excellent information can be found here: https://emmareed.net/getting-started-with-composting/#more-68994
Part 4 – Spread the word!
What will I do?
Create and share a poster stating what “acts of wildness” you are doing to help nature and display for others to see. This could be in your school, local community centre or local shops.
Take a photo of your poster and share it with your leader.
How do I get started?
This one is easy; all you need to do is to start part 3 and then use your imagination to create a poster.
Part 5 – Attend an event
What will I do?
Find out more about a particular area or species by attending a work party or event hosted by one of NB’s ‘green friends’.
How do I get started?
Identify an event you would like to attend and then agree this with your leader.
Information on events can be found here: Events A list of all our wonderful friends who you can help can be found here: Our Green Friends and Family.
Note: If you visited our stall at BEASTLY, you have already completed this activity! Simply show the sticker on your activity card to your leader at your next session.
