Conservation and the Boy Scouts of America have been partners for a long time. Camping, hiking, and respect for the outdoors are a part of the Scouting heritage. Many of the requirements for advancement from Tenderfoot through the Eagle Scout rank call for an increasing awareness and understanding of the natural sciences.

Many former Scouts have become leaders in conserving the environment and protecting it from abuse. Right now, Scouts are involved in learning about environmental problems and actively working to make a difference.

The fundamental purpose of the BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Awards program is to encourage learning by the participants and to increase public awareness about natural resource conservation.  Understanding and practicing sound stewardship of natural resources and environmental protection strengthens Scouting’s emphasis on respecting the outdoors.

The goal of this awards program is to encourage and recognize truly outstanding efforts undertaken by Scouting units, Scouts and Venturers, adult Scouters, and other individuals, corporations, and institutions that have contributed significantly to natural resource conservation and environmental protection.

BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award individual awards are granted by the National Council through the local council’s Conservation Committee to a member of a Scouts BSA, Sea Scout, or Venturing unit for exceptional and distinguished service to conservation and environmental improvement.

The BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Awards are presented for distinguished service in natural resource conservation. The award is given in one of three forms. The awards are:

Youth: BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award

Adult: BSA Distinguished Conservationist

Organizations and Individuals: BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award Certificate

A temporary award has been developed for Scouts who were working on the William T. Hornaday Bronze or Silver Awards and have already completed at least two service projects and had started on the third or fourth projects by October 13, 2020.  If the Scout meets these requirements, they have until June 30, 2021, to complete the following awards.  After these dates the awards will be retired and will not be available to be earned.

Youth: BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award Bronze Honor

BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award Silver Honor

For a complete list of the requirements for each award click here.

The award, the most distinguished in Scouting for exceptional conservation service, will be awarded for clearly outstanding efforts in planning, leadership, execution of plans, involvement of others, and opportunities taken to help others learn about natural resource conservation and environmental improvement.

The award includes the BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award certificate and an embroidered square knot.