Canoeing At Summer Camp

In addition to canoeing on Scout Pond, Troops can canoe on the Connecticut River. Below are the guidelines governing canoe excursions during summer camp.

• Canoe trips are the responsibility of the unit attending camp

• It is considered an off camp outing and a troop activity

• The Troop requesting the trip is to provide adult supervision, at least two deep for any trip, as well as drivers for the trip. You will need someone to shuttle vehicles between the launch site and the pick up site.

• The Troop is responsible for its own transportation. i.e. vans, station wagons, etc.

• Leaders must have Safe Swim Defense Instruction (cards) as well as Safety Afloat Certification. Certification can be earned while at camp, given by the Aquatics Director.

• A float plan must be completed and a copy must be left with the Program Director 24 hours prior to leaving on the trip.

• All Scouts must wear suitable footwear. i.e. sneakers or water shoes, for protection.

• All people (Scouts and Leaders) on the water must wear personal flotation devices (PFD’s). No exceptions.

• Chesterfield Scout Reservation will provide the camp truck to pull the canoe trailer, provided it is not otherwise engaged. The Troop is to provide a driver for this vehicle. The driver must be approved by the Camp Director and the Camp Ranger.

• Chesterfield Scout Reservation will provide a BSA lifeguard to accompany the canoe trip to insure Safety Afloat and to provide assistance when needed.

• Chesterfield Scout Reservation will provide lunch for the troop. This will be a “picnic” lunch, and the troop needs to put in a request for it at the pre-camp meeting. The number should include all scouts and adults on the outing.

• Chesterfield Scout Reservation staff will assist whenever possible.

• Weather is always a factor The Aquatics Director in consultation with the Unit Leader and Program director will have the final say about cancellation because of weather.

• Any troop that schedules an outing and cannot meet all of the requirements listed above, will have the outing canceled, and alternate activities scheduled. The CSR will do all that it can to insure that any scheduled outing "happens". but the final responsibility rests with the troop.