How to get to Dittmer                                                                                                                                                                                                   25

Map of Dittmer                                                                                                                                                                                                              26

Pre-Camp Information

Please take note of these important dates and important information.

Pre-camp Leaders meeting

For camp leaders and Cubmasters.  This meeting will provide you with all the information your pack needs to complete your planning for camp.  Key staff members will be on hand to answer your questions.  The meeting will be held on Wednesday February 21^st 2007 at 6:30 PM at First United Methodist Church on Route 63 in Batavia.  This meeting is for all parents and leaders of boys coming to camp this summer.  Every Unit scould have at least one person there.

 

1. Copy of your unit registration form
2. Any individual registrations & medical forms for early bird discount
3. Copy of your roster

Pre-camp registration meeting

This is an opportunity for you to fast track your unit through the check in process at camp.  It will be held on Friday May 11, 2007 at a location to be determined.  We will hold a brief meeting and answer any questions you may have.  But here’s the good part.  You will have the opportunity to sit down and pre-check your unit in.  By doing so, you will greatly speed up your check in at camp.  Please come prepared with the following.

 

1. All receipts so that we can figure out your finances.
2. Two copies of your roster.
3. ** Again this Year **   Turn in your medical forms.  This will allow the Health Officer to pre-screen your Scouts thereby greatly increasing the speed at which you go through the medical check process!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

I.  Reservation & Fee Information

Camp Schedule

For the summer season of 2007 Camp Dittmer will operate for 4 exciting weeks according to the following schedule.

 

Reservation Procedures

Boy Scout Troops register for a campsite & week, and Boy Scouts and their adult leaders attend together. At least two adult leaders per troop are required. If the troop brings at least 10 Boy Scouts, these two leaders attend at no cost, as long as at least one is Boy Scout Leader Specific and Youth Protection Trained. See the chart below to calculate additional free and fee leaders, based on troop size.

 

Camp fee:             $225 per youth per session, paid ON TIME, $240, paid LATE

                                $90 per adult per session (2 qualified leaders at no cost with at least 10 youth)

 

Session

Deposit:                 $100 per troop per session

 

Troops attending Camp Dittmer in 2006 may “pencil hold” space in the same session and campsite for 2007. $100 Troop site/session deposit is due by October 18, 2006. After October 18, 2006, all remaining sites in each session are open for all troops. $100 site/session deposit holds space for the Troop in the preferred site/session. Each session has a maximum camp population. Troops may submit youth payments in full at anytime, January – May 11, 2007. As soon as the maximum camp session population is reached, the session will be closed to new registrations, and remaining unpaid troops may be asked to move to a session with space available.

 

Payment:

 

February 21, 2007               $215 per person (youth)  due

May 11, 2007                      Final ON TIME payments due ($225 per youth, $90. per adult)

 

 

After May 11, 2007            Youth fees are $240, adult fees are $90 per session.

 

There are no sibling discounts.  Only registered Boy Scouts, leaders, and parent/leaders may attend camp.

 

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING WEBELOS AND NEW SCOUTS: Webelos Scouts in the fifth grade who graduate into a Boy Scout Troop in 2007 should attend Boy Scout Summer Camp with their new troop. Packs and troops should plan ahead to facilitate on time payment for these new Boy Scouts to attend Boy Scout Summer Camp. If packs and troops follow the Webelos to Boy Scout Transition Plan, their new Webelos graduates will be able to pay ON TIME by May 11, 2007. Leaders of new Boy Scouts who join after the February 21 and May 11 deadlines should call the Camping Director for clarification of payment deadlines and amounts.

Provisional Camper Reservations

Scouts who wish to attend camp for more than one exciting week, Scouts who wish to attend camp even though their home troop is not, or troops who wish to attend camp but cannot meet the two deep leadership policy may attend camp as provisional campers.  Provisional campers are formed into Troop #1 of Dittmer under the direction of a trained Scoutmaster.  The cost of one week of Provisional Camp is $250.00. If a Scout would like to attend an additional week of Provisional Camp the fee will be $145.00.  Interested Scouts or their unit leaders should contact the Council Service Center for additional information.  A provisional Sign-up Application is available at the Council Service Center and will be posted on the council website (www.itcbsa.org).

We’re On Line!

You can communicate with us via e-mail cd@itcbsa.org.  Send us your e-mail address and we’ll add you to our mailing list for program updates or if you just have questions.

 

Leader Fees

The basic adult leader fee is $90 for the week.  If your troop is bringing a minimum of 10 Scouts, two adult leaders are admitted free, only if one of the leaders is trained in Boy Scout Leader Specific, and Youth Protection Training.  When troops have more than 20 boys, an additional leader can go free:  (i.e. – 20 boys-3 free; 30 boys - 4 free; etc.)  Maximum per troop ‘free leader’ is 5. When a troop has fewer than 10 boys the second leader will be charged $90 to cover his or her meals.  Also, adults not spending the full week (partial leaders) will be charged $5 per night, plus their meals. 

 

Remember that all adults must be currently trained in Youth Protection!

 

 

Note: Special camp recognition will be presented to the troop adults for all ‘week-long’ leadership! (Troops will be able to purchase additional recognition items for their additional leaders)

Camp Savings Plan

No Scout needs to miss summer camp because of cost.  A savings plan will assure the Scouts in your troop a long-term camping experience.  A member of the troop committee or another adult should coordinate this effort.  The camp savings plan material should be explained to the boys and the parents well in advance of camp.  Encourage the Scout to deposit a sum of money each meeting toward their camp fee.  Scouts that have most of their fees on deposit by spring are usually able to get the balance and, thus attend camp.  The key to have enough money for camp is SAVE NOW!  Successful camping troops vigorously promote the camp savings plan.  Encourage Scouts to earn their own funds for summer camp or to sell popcorn for camping.  Encourage parents to provide their sons with a week at camp or partial payment for the camp fee as a birthday present, Holiday gift, or some other special recognition.  A gift certificate is available from the Council Service Center.

Council Camperships

Very often generous organizations and individuals provide camperships for Scouts in the Iroquois Trail Council who attend our camps. While we expect Scouts to take part in unit and Council fundraising efforts to help earn their way to camp and while a lot of troops help their Scouts with the camp fees, there are camperships available for families of Scouts attending Camp Dittmer.  If a troop has such a need and has exhausted its own efforts to finance an individual Scout, submit a campership request form to identify the individual need.  If money for camperships is available, a working arrangement will be developed for individual Scouts.  Camperships are only for a portion of the Basic Fee for summer camp and are available to those families and units that are unable to afford the total camp fee.  Camperships are limited and are allocated to Scouts in the Iroquois Trail Council on a first-come first-serve basis with first priority given to those scouts who have tried to earn their way to camp through council sponsored fundraisers.  Applications will be available at the Council Service Center.  Please fill out applications properly and as completely as possible. Campership applications are due by December 29, 2006. Applications and awards are confidential, between the family and the unit leader, and when approved, a copy of the approved application will be mailed to the Scoutmaster and parent   Camperships cannot be transferred from one Scout to another.

Refund Policy

All refund requests should be submitted in writing to the Council Service Center by either the family or the unit.  Requests for refunds received after September 30, 2007 will not be considered.  Basic camp fees ARE TRANSFERABLE AMONG CAMPERS WITHIN THE UNIT.  Refunds of camp fees will be subject to a $25.00 cancellation fee.  This cancellation fee does not apply in the following circumstances:

 

1. Illness of Scout prevents his attendance at summer camp.  (Doctor’s note required)
2. Illness or death in the campers’ immediate family prevents his attendance at camp.
3. Family relocation makes attending camp impractical.
4. Mandatory attendance at summer school that is verifiable.
5. A camper leaves camp for medical reasons (HOME-SICKNESS IS NOT CONSIDERED A REFUNDABLE MEDICAL REASON.) Must be certified by the camp health officer or camp doctor.  In such cases, the camper will received a pro-rated refund for the unused portion of the camp fee, if unused portion constitutes three or more days and the medical excuse is not due to horseplay or negligence of said camper.

Visitor Meals

Visitors are always welcome at camp, but must check in at the camp office.  We ask that parents contact their son’s Scoutmaster prior to coming out to camp.  If a visitor wishes to stay for a meal, they must make a reservation at the camp office at least 24 hours in advance.  Visitor meal charges are to be paid at the trading post.  Visitors will receive a ticket to be presented upon entering dining hall for each meal.  The prices are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

II.  General Information

 

Camp Dittmer has a license, (issued by New York State) to operate a youth camp.  We are inspected periodically by the New York State Health Department and meet or exceed all of their requirements.  Additionally, Camp Dittmer is an accredited camp through the National Council Boy Scouts of America.  To be an accredited camp, Camp Dittmer must meet a long list of very strict quality standards, which encompass everything from long range planning to staff qualifications and training.  We are inspected annually.  Copies of our most recent New York State Health Department or National BSA inspections are available upon request by contacting the Council Service Center.

Facilities

For general camp use, Camp Dittmer provides shower facilities, dining hall, First Aid building staffed 24 hours a day by certified medical personnel, supervised boating and swimming, shooting sports ranges, nature area, craft lodge, scout crafts area, high adventure course (Project COPE), and much more. 

 

For troop use, Camp Dittmer provides each unit with a campsite, which contains two man tents on wooden platforms, bunks, picnic table, bulletin board, flag pole, equipment storage shed, campfire area, washstand and latrine, and site maintenance.  Troops are encouraged to bring their own dining flies, cooking equipment, lanterns/stoves, woodsman tools, program “rainy day” equipment, and other such items that will make their stay at camp more enjoyable for their Scouts.

 

Staff

Camp Dittmer has a trained staff of around 30 men and women, headed by a camp director, business manager, a program director, and a camp commissioner.  Many staff members are over the age of 18 and most have previous years of camp staff experience.  The staff completes rigorous training prior to your arrival.  The staff will assist and accommodate your unit in every way possible as we work to ensure that you get everything we have to offer out of camp.  The role of the camp staff is not, however, to assume the leadership or programming for your troop (except in an emergency).  Our staff will work to smoothly coordinate the needs of your Scouts and troop into what becomes the camp program.  Occasionally, it may be necessary to shift or rearrange certain program plans so that we may accommodate the largest number of campers.  We will try to keep you informed of any such changes.

Program

Not all troops are alike. That is why troops can develop a program at summer camp that suits their needs.  Each troop has a custom-made program. That is why at Camp Dittmer, we do not provide the program for your troop.  Rather, at Camp Dittmer we provide a camp full of program opportunities for your troop.  Advancement opportunities, older Scout opportunities, first year camper opportunities, troop and patrol opportunities (troop shoots, polar bear swims etc), and individual opportunities. It is our hope that each unit sits down with this manual at their next Patrol Leader Council meeting and develop your troop’s camp program based on your needs and what the camp has to offer!  The staff does not provide the program for your Scouts; rather, the staff supports your troop’s program by providing you with all kinds of unique and fun opportunities. We hope you see the difference in philosophy…good camping!

Mailing Address

Name of Scout

Troop #, Campsite, Week #

Camp Dittmer

2212 Toll Rd.

Phelps, NY 14532

 

Daily postal deliveries and collections are made at camp.  Mail will be picked up from the mailbox at the Camp Office at 10:00am each day.  It would be very helpful if the Scouts would ask their correspondence to include their troop number and campsite and week # in the address.  Mail sent to camp will either be delivered to the unit at meal times or put in the campsite mail slots located in the Scoutmaster’s Lounge on the Health Lodge back porch.

Emergency Phone Numbers

Campers can be contacted at camp in an emergency.  When calling to contact a camper, please be sure to include the troop number and campsite as part of the message.  Contact phone numbers are:

 

Camp Office 315-548-3474                                                                                                                 if no answer-Camp Ranger 315-548-3479

Iroquois Trail Council Office 585-343-0307              

Emergency Contact

Parents are required to leave notice of their whereabouts with the Scoutmaster, if they plan to be away from home while their son is at Camp.  If the parents cannot be reached, it is necessary for the Scoutmaster to have the name and phone number of another person who can be contacted in case of emergency.

 

Conduct

The law of the camp is the “Scout Law” simple yet all-inclusive.  All rules and regulations of year-round camping also apply during summer camp.  The Camp Director reserves the right to dismiss anyone from camp for violation of the camp policies and standards, which are listed in this book.

 

 

 

III.  Camp Services

Transportation and Parking

Transportation to and from camp is the responsibility of each Scout’s parent and should be coordinated through the unit.  Please try to car pool; a scout is conservation minded!  Drivers must be at least 18 years old and properly licensed.  Vehicles must be registered, insured and inspected.  Upon arrival in camp, leaders’ vehicles will be unloaded and gear will be transported to the campsite by way of the camp vehicles.  No vehicles are allowed to be moved in camp without the permission of the Camp Director.  No one is allowed to ride on trailers or in the back of pick up trucks (whether or not it has a cap).  Drivers who break this rule will be asked to leave camp immediately.  Unit leaders who knowingly allow this to happen will risk having their unit dismissed from camp.  Safety First!  All personal vehicles and drivers are subject to the terms as stated on the local tour permit application.

Quartermaster Supplies

Some tools and equipment are available for loan to units.  Inquires and pick up of these items can be made with the camp office.  When you check out this equipment, you and the Ranger should inspect it.  A charge will be made for all damaged and lost equipment.  Please return equipment immediately after use. To obtain this equipment, speak directly to a ranger, or fill out a maintenance request form.

Dining Facilities

Seating assignments will be made with your unit during check in on Sunday with an attempt toward seating patrols together.  Please plan on having at least one staff guest at each of your tables each meal.  Unit leaders are responsible for the supervision of their tables and in ensuring the waiter system is being correctly used.  Meals are served on time; latecomers will be asked to wait to be seated.  We use family style dining.  Leaders are asked to watch that tableware is not removed from the dining hall or thrown out. Waiters are required for every meal starting with Sunday dinner, excluding in-site meals and Friday BBQ.

 

Waiters – One troop representative per table should report to the dining hall 15 minutes prior to the meal.  Under the direction of the Dining Hall Steward, they will set the table, deliver food during the meal, and clean the table and surrounding area after the meal.  Waiter duty should be rotated among the members of your troop. Waiter duty is a normal camp assignment and is not to be used as a punishment. An experienced camper, not a first-year camper, should be your first waiter as Sunday can be confusing enough for a first timer.

Lost and Found

Lost and found articles can be brought to or picked up from the camp office during office hours.  At the end of the camp season, found items may be claimed at the Service Center until September 30 when they are donated to Goodwill.

Vespers Services

“A Scout is Reverent.”  Camp Dittmer has a beautiful chapel that we encourage all Scouts to visit regularly for peaceful meditation.  The chapel is also available for units or individuals who wish to provide their own services during the week.  Any unit wishing to invite their spiritual leader or troop Chaplain to conduct their services may do so.  Your spiritual leader is the guest of the camp for meals while serving the spiritual needs of your troop.  An organized Scout’s Own vespers services will be conducted Wednesday’s at 7:30 p.m.  All program and business areas (trading post) of camp will be closed during these services.

Site Commissioners

Each campsite will have a commissioner assigned to it.  The commissioner is your resource and is to serve as your liaison between your troop and the camp staff.  They will answer questions, help with scheduling, solve problems, help with site supplies, listen, and just be a friendly face.
Trading Post

The Trading Post is open most of the day except during meals (and vesper service). Camp Dittmer makes every effort to provide our campers with a well-stocked trading post that contains all of the camp souvenirs, craft items, merit badge books, stamps, Boy Scout supplies, and of course, snacks that the Scouts expect to find at camp. Items can be purchased with cash, check, or credit card.  The Trading Post will be open on Sundays until 5:00pm for all scouts and guests.  Scouts should bring spending money for refreshments, craft materials, merit badge books and souvenirs.  There is no specific amount of money a boy should bring to camp.  However, last year’s average camper spent about $50.00 at the Trading Post.

Camp Office Hours

The camp office will operate from 9:00am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 4:00pm, and 7:00pm to 9:00pm, Monday through Thursday as well as 9am-12pm on Friday.  These times are best to call and to reach our camp office manager about camp questions (However the camp phone is monitored 24 hours a day for emergencies).

Campsite Inspections

“A Scout Is Clean.”  In an effort to help teach your Scouts good camping habits, we will be inspecting campsites daily, Monday through Friday.  The campsite inspections will be conducted by unit commissioners and will determine the clean campsite awards.  Inspections will be conducted during the morning program times before lunch.  This is a mandatory requirement of the National Camp Standards.

Camp Evaluation

As a means of improving our Camp program, each unit leader and Senior Patrol Leader will be asked to complete a camp evaluation form near the end of their week at Camp.  Of course, comments and criticisms (compliments too) are welcome at any time.  And our daily leadership meetings offer you the opportunity to share ideas and concerns.

Communication in Camp

Communication is the key to a good summer.  At Camp Dittmer we do this in many ways.  Each morning after breakfast, we will be holding a Scoutmaster roundtable.  This short meeting will allow us to answer any questions you may have as well as bring you up to date on the happenings at camp.  We encourage each unit to have one adult attend these morning roundtables.  Each day after lunch, we will hold a similar meeting with your Senior Patrol Leader.  At Camp Dittmer, we believe in the open door policy.  We cannot solve your problems or concerns if we are unaware of them just as you cannot get the most out of camp if you do not know what is going on.  We will do our part to keep you informed, please help us by doing your part.  However troop leaders that wish to use FRS radios to keep in contact with each other are welcome to do so.  Please check with the camp director for available camp frequencies.

 

 

Visiting Day for Parents

Parents are welcome to visit camp at any time, but are required to check in at the camp office.  However, because most boys are at camp for only one week, frequent visits interfere with the troop program and his activities.  It is completely at the Scoutmaster’s discretion to encourage or to discourage visits by parents.  Parents should clear all visits with his/her Scoutmaster.  They should also be aware of limited parking and toilet facilities at camp. Parents may not drive to a campsite without permission from the camp director.  The Ranger staff will assist with the delivery of materials to a campsite.

 

The best time for parents to visit camp is during Friday evening dinner and campfire.  Tickets for these dinners are available at the Trading Post.  Parents are invited to enjoy snacks and other foods under the big tree during check-in.  Snacks and sodas are sold in the TP.

 

If a troop has a large group of parents visiting on a weekday, we will try to provide a staff guide to show them around camp and explain the program areas and point of interest.  All visitors must check-in/check-out at the Camp Office upon their arrival or departure from camp.  Visitors are especially responsible for wearing his or her wristband and presenting his or her meal ticket at meals during a visit.  Visitors desiring to eat meals in the Dining Hall should make arrangements with the Camp Office as far in advance as possible, but at least 24 hours in advance.  Generally, parents will be permitted to sit with their sons, provided space is available.  If space is limited, a special guest table will be arranged.  Visitor meal costs are as follows:

 

 

 

Friday BBQ tickets $5.00 per person, Under 10 FREE.

BBQ tickets MUST be ordered by the Monday, Noon of the week your troop is attending.

 

In Site Cooking and Supplies

Units are required to cook two meals in their campsite each week (one lunch & one dinner).  If you wish to cook any additional meals in your site, please let us know at least two weeks prior to attending camp.

 

Troops will need to supply their own cook kits, utensils, etc. Campsite supplies such as toilet paper, garbage bags, and latrine disinfectant can be obtained from the dining hall during normal operating hours.

 

Note:  The New York State Health Department dictates how many in-site meals each Troop may prepare during the week.

 

Garbage

Trash pickups will be made daily immediately after dinner.  If your trash needs to be picked up, please tie the bag and set it by the side of the road near your campsite and it will be picked up.

Shower Facilities

Camp Dittmer offers 2 separate shower facilities.   In order to keep these areas clean and neat, we have created a daily shower cleaning schedule that units will be expected to follow. 

 

IV.  Camp Standards

Please review and discuss these standards with your Scouts.  The laws of camp are the Scout Laws.  If ever in doubt of whether or not something is appropriate for camp, ask this question.  “How does this lead to Citizenship Training, Character Development, or Physical and Mental Fitness?”

Troop Leadership

Each unit must have a minimum of two adults in camp at all times.  One of these adults must be over 21 years old.  At no times are Scouts to be left unattended in camp.  If there are Scouts in the campsite, there needs to be an adult present in the site as well!  Scouts cannot be left unsupervised in a campsite.  If a leader wishes to leave camp, arrangements should be made with the Camp Director for coverage.  Under NO circumstances may the troop be left with one leader, or unattended.  If adult leadership changes during the week, please advise the Camp Management.  Anyone entering or leaving Camp Dittmer during the week must sign in or out at the camp office. For everyone’s safety, each person in camp must also wear his or her proper identification bracelet.  Remember, per Iroquois Trail Council and National Regulations, all adults must be trained in BSA Youth Protection.  This includes all parents who plan to stay overnight in camp!

Signing In and Out

Anytime a visitor, leader, or camper enters or leaves camp, they must sign in or out at the camp office.  There is a sign in/out book available 24 hours a day.  All persons (campers and guests) who have properly checked in will receive an identification bracelet. Unregistered visitors to camp will be charged with trespassing (this applies to anyone found in camp without a bracelet on).

Discipline

Normally, discipline of a camper is the responsibility of the adult unit leader in charge at the summer camp.  All discipline problems shall be reported to the Camp Director immediately.   Under no circumstances shall a camper be deprived of food; isolated; subjected to corporal punishment or abusive physical exercise; or verbally abused as a means of punishment.  Initiation or hazing of Scouts is not allowed.  Raiding of other campsites or of program areas is strictly prohibited and will result in those responsible being removed from camp.

Uniform

It is recommended that a Scout have a complete Official Boy Scout Summer uniform for his stay at camp.  The summer uniform consists of a short-sleeved Scout shirt, Scout shorts, Scout socks and belt.  Scouts respond best to a good example.  Leaders are encouraged to set a good example by wearing a proper, complete BSA uniform.  The complete uniform is to be worn at dinner and for camp wide events.

Camouflage and other inappropriate clothing

Camouflage type clothing is not allowed to be worn.  All campers are to wear proper footwear at all times to prevent stone bruises, cuts, and thorn punctures, which may prohibit swimming.  Camp terrain is not suitable for walking sandals.  No bare feet will be allowed.  Any article of clothing with foul language or images will not be permitted.  Per national policy, the Confederate flag is inappropriate for the Scouting Program.  Female leaders should also keep in mind that appropriate dress is required at all times.  Only one-piece bathing suits are appropriate.  We should all keep in mind the Scout Oath and Law as it pertains to our clothing.  Scoutmasters should enforce this rule in their campsites. 

Rifles, Bows and Knives

Only camp owned rifles, bows, and ammunition may be used in camp.  Privately owned rifles and bows are not allowed in camp.  Non-folding sheath knives are not allowed.

Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, Fireworks, Tobacco Products

Alcohol, illegal drugs and fireworks are prohibited at any Boy Scouts of America camp.  Anyone caught in possession of them will be arrested by the local authorities and removed from the camp property.  Since Scout camp is hardly the place for a boy to learn to smoke (or to further the habit) troop leaders should not permit any Scout to smoke or use smokeless tobacco. Troop leaders are encouraged not to smoke; however, there are limited designated areas for those leaders that do smoke: leaders are requested to confine their smoking to these areas and away from the youth of the troops.  This is in accordance with National BSA policy.

 

General Safety

Stone throwing is dangerous and will not be tolerated.  Liquid Fuels must be used with care.  Only trained adults may fuel or light liquid fuel items (Propane is a liquid fuel).  Liquid fuels must be locked up at all times.  Liquid Fuels Training will be offered for adults. Aerosols are not only bad for the environment but damage the waterproofing of the tents.  DO NOT bring them to camp.  No flames in tents.  Only battery operated lights or glow sticks are allowed in tents. 

Rest at Camp

The amount of sleep a boy gets can make the difference between a great camping experience and a poor one.  Each person needs an adequate amount of sleep to function in a cheerful and positive manner.  The Scoutmaster is responsible to see that each boy has the opportunity to get at least 8 hours of sleep each day.  Each troop should respect the quiet time 10:00pm to 7:00am.  There will also be a one-hour siesta each afternoon.

Leaving Camp

Any Scout or Scouter who leaves camp at any time, for any reason, must stop at the camp office to sign out.  When returning, he/she must stop and sign-in.  NO SCOUT will be permitted to leave camp without permission of the Scoutmaster and parent/guardian.  All registered visitors, leaders, and campers will wear arm bracelets.

Taps

To be considerate of other campers, please observe the camp policy of being in your campsite by 10:00pm and quiet by 10:30pm.

Restricted Areas and Activities

Swimming is only allowed in the waterfront area and only when the area is open and under staff supervision.  Scouts are not allowed on any activity that is over 6 feet off the ground (with the exception of COPE activities).  Any troop projects like monkey bridges; etc must be approved by the camp office.  Dangerous and off limit areas will be pointed out during your camp tour.  Please help us ensure your Scouts safety by enforcing these rules.

Fishing

Fishing is a great activity but can also be a dangerous one.  Scouts must use the buddy system when fishing.  Please remember that a scout is clean, so please clean up after yourself before moving on to another activity.

Tree & Property Damage

Camp Dittmer exists as a service to you and to your unit.  Please do not destroy or deface any equipment, facilities, or trees No trees are to be cut - at any time. A $10.00 per inch of diameter penalty will be enforced.  Units will be billed for equipment that is damaged, destroyed, or lost.

 

The BSA is also a low impact “Leave No Trace Organization.”  We discourage the use of fires on a 24-hour daily basis.  

Vehicle Permits

Because of potential safety hazards, vehicle permits are restricted to Camp service vehicles only.  Heavy traffic ruins our roads and is expensive and hard to fix.  Any requests for special permission to drive in camp for health reasons must be submitted in writing to the Camp director, two weeks prior to arrival at camp and MUST include Doctor’s signature.  NO EXCEPTIONS! Camp Rangers will be available for the delivery of materials to a campsite during the week.

 

Pre-Camp Information

Please take note of these important dates and important information.  It is important that units take full advantage of the pre-camp activities.  Every attempt will be made to hold pre-camp swim tests at various locations throughout the Iroquois Trail Council.  If you want a fast check on your first day of camp then this is a must.  Dates and times will be made available as soon as possible.

The adult leaders and senior patrol leader from each troop are invited to camp the pre-camp registration meeting.

Pre-Camp Registration Meeting

Pre-camp meeting will be held on Friday, May 11, 2007.  Place to be announced.  It will be an opportunity for you to fast track your unit through the check in process at camp.  We will hold a brief meeting and answer any questions you may have.  But here’s the good part—you will have the opportunity to sit down and pre-check your unit in.  By doing so, you will greatly speed up your check in at camp on Sunday.  Please come prepared with the following.

 

1. All receipts so we can finalize and confirm your payments.
2. Two copies of your roster.
3. Turn in your medical forms.  This will allow the Health Officer to pre-screen your Scouts thereby greatly increasing the speed at which you go through the Med. check process!

 

Sunday Check in

Units are asked to check in between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon.  Registration will not begin before 1:00 p.m. so please do not arrive early.  Express check in is available for qualifying troops.  Your campsite guide will greet you in the Parking Lot when you arrive and act as your guide during this process.  After you check in at the office your unit only has three things to do before dinner.

 

1. Med. Re-check (should go quickly if you turned in your forms in by the pre-camp leaders meeting).
2. Swim tests (for those who did not swim test in the spring).
3. Before dinner, your campsite guide will take the Scouts and Leaders on their camp tour.  Due to State Law, everyone must attend the tour. 

 

After dinner, we’ll all get together for the fantastic opening campfire.  A short leader’s meeting will be held after the campfire in the dining hall.  We ask that each troop send at least one representative.

 

 

 

 

 

Friday (Saturday) Check Out

Make an appointment on Friday with your Commissioner for final check out.  Campsite equipment will be checked for maintenance needs and damage.  Troops are all encouraged to enjoy the closing campfire and stay until Saturday morning.

Saturday Mornings

Troops planning to join us for Breakfast on Saturday Morning need to inform the Commissioners no later than the Thursday morning Scoutmaster Meeting.  All troops must leave camp by 10:00 am Saturday Morning. The staff needs 24 hours off so please be courteous of them.

 

Remember: “A Scout is Clean” He always leaves the camping area cleaner than he found it.

 

V.  Medical and Health Information

Health Forms

A medical form must be submitted for every youth and adult staying at camp.  Only the official BSA form provided by Iroquois Trail Council is acceptable.  All information must be complete.  Please review these forms before you turn them in; this will help offset problems at check in.  Specifically, check for parent and doctor signature, immunization dates, insurance information, emergency contact names and numbers, etc. Consent for over-the-counter medications must be included for everyone under 18 years of age.

 

The patient’s history and parental signature must be updated annually for everyone.  For Scouts and adults under 40, the doctor’s signature must be within 36 months.  Adults over 40 must have a doctor sign their form annually. Upon arrival at Camp, a medical re-check will be made.  Any Scout or Leader not having a complete and signed medical form will be UNABLE to take part in any activities at Camp. The completed health form must be in camp within 24 hours of arrival or you cannot stay in camp!   These forms must be kept on file at camp so do not turn in originals!

 

A Health Officer is present in Camp at all times and a local doctor is on call for emergencies.  All first aid treatment will be given and recorded at the Health Lodge.  Serious cases are sent to local hospitals.  All injuries must be reported to the Health Officer, even if treated by Troop Leaders.

 

Medication

All youth medication must be turned in at the designated area during check-in.  Medication must be in the original container, NO EXCEPTIONS and must be listed on the participants Medical Form.  The Health Officer will observe the Scout’s administration of his medication.  Rescue Inhalers Bee Sting kits and Epi-Pens will be allowed to be carried by Scouts as long as the appropriate section of the  health form is completed.  Scouts may not possess nor administer over-the-counter medication.  Treatment of minor ailments can be obtained at the Health Lodge per the individual’s doctor and parent permissions. Please make sure that any medication turned in at camp is properly labeled as to what it is, dosage info, Scout’s name, troop #, and campsite.

Injuries

All injuries, whether treated in the site or not, must be reported to the Health Officer and logged.  In the case of serious injuries or illnesses, do not move the victim. If you are trained in first aid, begin that and then have someone contact the nearest staff member and they will handle the situation.

Blood Born Pathogens

We encourage all units to take precautions when it comes to blood born pathogens.  When treating a wound, the first aider should wear appropriate gloves.  All contaminated materials (gauze pads, clothing, etc.) should be set to the side so that they can be properly disposed of by the Camp Health Officer.  Surfaces that have been contaminated (tables, cots, etc.) need to be disinfected by the Health Officer.  For more information and training in blood born pathogens, please talk to the Health Officer when you arrive in camp. While first aid may be initiated by any camper, leader or staff member, the Health Officer must be notified immediately.

Medical History

Please make every effort to get to know the medical history of your Scouts before camp.  Sleepwalking, allergies, etc. are not conditions that you want to find out about when they happen!

Special Needs

Scouts or adults who have special needs due to a physical or mental disability will be accommodated to the best of our ability.  Please be sure to let the camp office know as soon as possible as to any special needs or equipment.  Scouts or leaders who need special diets due to medical or religious requirements will be accommodated if possible.  Please give us specific instructions as soon as possible so that we can work toward making the week a good one for that person.

Daily troop leadership requirements:

Proper supervision is required at all times. While the camp provides a staff to handle programming, instruction and supervision in the program areas, individual troops are required to ensure that Scouts are supervised whenever they are in the campsite and that the buddy system is in effect when scouts are traveling between the campsite and other areas of camp and in between daily sessions.

Campsite sign out systems

An individual sign out system must be used in each campsite. Each troop may have a system of their own design, but it must be in use and able to be understood by others in the event of an emergency. It is recommended that individuals be able to ‘sign out’ for up to three different locations at a time.  This coincides with the daily schedule a boy is likely to follow.  The camp leadership team reserves the right to inspect the use of check in systems. If you need more specific instructions on how to fulfill with this requirement please ask prior to your arrival at camp.

 

In the unlikely event that a troop is not in compliance with the campsite supervision and/or a campsite sign out system requirements the entire troop may be asked to leave camp immediately.

The Buddy System:

All Scouts are required to use the buddy system at all times in camp. Buddies do not have to be from the same troop.  Scouts found without a buddy will be escorted to his destination and their name will be given to the camp director.  A second offence will lead to a conference with the Scout, his Scoutmaster and the camp director.  A third offence will lead to the dismissal of the Scout from camp.

 

Restricted Areas

The following areas of the camp have restrictions and use thereof will be in accordance with the following information:

Aquatics Areas

Entry to the waterfront is restricted to an approved entrance and exit and then only when the waterfront personnel permit such use.  Waterfront personnel are in complete charge of all waterfront activities.  Certain weather restrictions apply to all waterfront activities.

Rifle, Shotgun, & Archery Ranges

Use of these areas is under the direct supervision of the appropriate Range Officers.  The Range Officers will control the exit from and entrance to the Range.

C.O.P.E/Climbing

Use of the C.O.P.E. and climbing areas is restricted to approved entrance and exit areas.  Assigned camp staff are in complete charge of all area activities.  All participants of Project C.O.P.E. must be 13 years old by January 1, 2007. No exceptions will be made.  Certain weather restrictions apply to all C.O.P.E./Climbing activities.

Other Program areas

At no time should any camper (Scout or Adult) enter any program area when there is no staff member present!

Specific Information

Camp Administration will continue to provide adequate and proper training for all unit leaders.  The major thrust of this training will center upon the close supervision of Scouts, which is the responsibility of all staff and all adult leadership.

 

Dismissal from camp for policy violations will not result in a refund of any fees.

 

Camp Leaders Meeting

On the first day of each camping week (Sunday) all unit leaders attending will be instructed in the procedures listed within this guide.  This takes place each week upon the arrival of the unit on camp property.  Topics discussed are:

• Out of Bounds Areas
• Troop Roll Call
• Use of In-Campsite/Sign-Out Boards or Notices
• Proper Implementation of the Buddy System
• Tour of the Camp Facilities
• Accepted Adult to Scout Ratios
• Shower Uses
• Special Program Schedule
• Emergency Procedures

 

Scoutmaster Meetings will be held everyday after breakfast.

Senior Patrol Leaders Meetings will be held everyday after lunch.

 

Emergency Procedures  You will be given a copy of these procedures to post on your bulletin board.

 

The best defense against any emergency is preparedness. Being prepared, understanding policies and practices governing the actions of staff and campers is the adult leader's responsibility. The health and safety of everyone in camp is the primary concern. Each leader must not only know what to do in an emergency, but also what can be done to prevent them. Please become very familiar with the content of this section. In time of crisis, there is only limited time to react.

 

These procedures must be ingrained - a life may depend on it!

 

General Information

In any emergency, the following should remain in the up most in our minds:

1. Notify the nearest staff member immediately
2. Do not make any premature decisions or give any instructions or information unless relayed to you by the Camp Director or his designee.
3. Leaders/Staff members, above all, should remain calm and collected. Set the proper frame of mind and avoid panic during the emergency.
4. A "siren" emergency may only be started and ended by the Camp Director or his designee. Not all emergencies are camp-wide; only the Camp Director can determine that.
5. Unless it is a life-threatening emergency, the Camp Director must be consulted before an ambulance can be called.

Reporting

When an emergency presents itself, the following steps should be followed:

1. Take all steps to ensure that further injury or potential injurious situations have been dealt with.
2. Report the emergency to the nearest staff member
3. Give a very clear and calm report-who, what, where, when, how, etc.
4. Do not give out any information to the media – All media contact is to go through the Camp Director in conjunction with the Scout Executive.

Siren

A camp-wide emergency will be signaled by blasts from the camp siren. Non-camp-wide emergencies will be relayed down through the chain of command. Follow all instructions explicitly:

 

CONTINUOUS SIREN  -  CAMP EMERGENCY

1.       All campers and leaders report to the parade field at as quick a pace as is safe.  When all campers are accounted for or after 10 minutes have passed, the SPL or responsible leader reports the status of your unit to the staff member in charge.  Do not wait longer than 10 minutes from the time you have arrived.

2.       Please note:  Scouts at the shooting sports ranges, COPE Course or other remote areas as defined by the Camp Director may be held during an emergency.  Scouts and leaders that are out of camp will be cleared at the office.

3.       If a Scout or Adult Leader is not accounted for, then their name and last known location must be noted and reported to the staff member in charge.  DO NOT attempt to find the individual on your own.

4.       Second Continuous Siren - All Clear.  Resume normal activities.

 

 

VI.  Gear & Supplies

Personal Gear

• Pack or footlocker
• Sleeping Bag/2 Sheets & Blanket
• Mattress/Foam Pad
• Full Scout Summer Uniform
• More than one pair of comfortable Walking Shoes
• Underwear (shirt & shorts)- 7 pair
• Extra Clothing (shorts, pants, shirts)- 3 each
• Sneakers
• Cap or Hat
• Jacket
• Socks- 7 pair
• Swim Trucks
• Rain Gear
• Mess Kit and Mug
• Hand Towel
• Wash Cloth
• Personal first aid kit
• Soap
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Brush or Comb

Health & Cleanliness

• Bath Towel

Completed Medical Form

Scouts cannot be admitted to camp without a completed medical form

For Advancement

• Merit Badge Pamphlets
• BSA Handbook and Fieldbook
• Pens, Pencils & Paper
• Merit Badge Partials
• Merit Badge Projects (pre req. Started or Completed)

Special Optional Items

• Flashlight
• Fishing Gear
• Camera and Film
• Extra Batteries
• Bug Repellent
• Musical Instrument
• Bible, Testament or Prayer Book
• Canteen
• Old shoes or water socks
• Spending Money
• Alarm Clock
• Pillow

 

NOTE:  Scouts interested in taking waterfront merit badges (Swimming, Lifesaving, Rowing, or Canoeing) or the BSA Lifeguard training should bring long trousers, a long-sleeved button-down shirt, and a pair of old sneakers. They will use these clothes for rapid undress and/or emergency swim requirements and should plan to get them wet. For this reason, old clothes are suggested.  Also anyone participating in any C.O.P.E. activities should being wear long, durable pants; blue jeans are recommended.  Lightweight footwear is required; sneakers are preferred, and boots are prohibited. Large belt buckles are not allowed on the course.  Gloves must be leather or leather-palmed.  Participants should leave watches, knives, keys, and jewelry in their campsite.  Proper headgear will be issued.

What to Leave Home

Fireworks, ammunition, firearms, sheath knives, camouflage and military clothing, valuables, radio boom box or CD players motorized or remote controlled toys, personal CB radios, and aerosol cans of any type.  For self-protection, valuables that are merely “creature comforts” (radios, tape players, Game Boys etc.) should be left at home.  We carry no insurance on personal items and come on, this IS CAMP, isn’t it?

 

Troop Gear

Equipment

• Sign in/out method
• 100’ Clothes Line
• Troop Advancement Chart or Duplicate
• Troop Record Book
• Alarm Clock
• Troop and American Flags
• Paper, Pencils/Pens, Clipboards, etc.
• Small Mirror for Washstand
• Campcraft and Scoutcraft Materials
• Patrol Cooking Equipment (Dutch Ovens)
• Patrol Flags
• Thumb Tacks
• Merit Badge Application Cards