On August 30, the Canton Scouts troop 185 headed out to continue earning their canoeing merit badges. Students who are participating, range from 3rd grade thru 9th grade and it all takes place at Canton Lake with troop master Don Foster leading the Canton students.

They’re sure to learn all fundamentals of canoeing in great detail, including learning the variety of paddle styles and paddle strokes for, and learning how to load and unload a very unstable canoe. Knowing knot tying basics this knowledge is essential for any water navigator. Lastly, staying weather aware and knowing all life-saving steps while out in the water are fundamental safety steps that the scouts learn.

Canoeing is a sport for us now but was originally an ancient mode of transportation up until the late 19th century. Canoeing even became part of the Olympic games in the summer of 1936.

The Canton students taking part of this adventure will soon finish this training and earn a merit badge to add to their collection. Three of these students are very close to becoming Eagle Scouts and will have to complete their Eagle status with a community service project and funds raised by the Scout to finish this process.