kids encyclopedia robot

Scouting in North Dakota facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Scouting in North Dakota
A Cub Scout, with Troop 319, places an American flag on the gravesite of a U.S. Soldier who served in the Spanish-American War at Calvary Cemetery in Grand Forks, N.D., May 24, 2013 130524-F-JB669-040.jpg
A cub scout in North Dakota

Scouting in North Dakota has a rich and exciting history. For over 100 years, it has offered fun and educational programs to thousands of young people. These programs help kids learn new skills and explore the outdoors in ways that fit the North Dakota environment.

How Scouting Started in North Dakota

Scouting first came to North Dakota in the early 1900s. Many local groups, called "councils," were formed across the state. These early councils helped bring the Scouting program to different towns and cities.

Early Scouting Councils (1910-1950)

In the early days, many different Scouting councils popped up. For example, the Devils Lake Council started in 1922. The Minot Council began in 1918. Grand Forks and Fargo also had their own councils. Over time, some of these smaller groups joined together to form larger councils. This helped Scouting reach even more kids across North Dakota.

Scouting Councils Grow (1950-1990)

By the mid-1900s, Scouting in North Dakota was organized into four main councils. Each council had its own headquarters and served a different part of the state.

  • The Red River Valley Council was based in Fargo. It covered the eastern and southeastern parts of North Dakota.
  • The Lake Aggasiz Council was in Grand Forks. This council served northeastern North Dakota.
  • The Missouri Valley Council was located in Bismarck. It focused on the Bismarck and Mandan areas.
  • The Great Plains Area Council was headquartered in Minot. This council served western North Dakota.

In 1974, a big change happened. All four of these councils decided to merge. They joined together to form one large council called the Northern Lights Council. This merger helped make Scouting programs even stronger across the region.

Scouting in North Dakota Today

Today, all of North Dakota is part of the Northern Lights Council (NLC). This council was created in 1974 when the smaller councils joined forces.

Northern Lights Council
North Dakota BSA Councils.png
Scouting in North Dakota

The Northern Lights Council helps thousands of Scouts. It covers all of North Dakota. It also reaches into parts of South Dakota, northwestern Minnesota, and northeastern Montana. This means many kids get to experience the fun and learning that Scouting offers.

Girl Scouting in North Dakota

Girl Scouts also have a strong presence in North Dakota. They offer programs that help girls build courage, confidence, and character.

Girl Scouts - Dakota Horizons
Dakota-horizons.svg
Map of Girl Scouts - Dakota Horizons

The Girl Scouts - Dakota Horizons council has offices in Fargo and Bismarck. They also have smaller offices in Minot and Grand Forks. This helps them support Girl Scout troops all over the state.

Girl Scout Camps in North Dakota

Girl Scouts in North Dakota can enjoy several special camps. These camps offer amazing outdoor adventures and learning experiences.

  • Camp Owettii is located near Minot, ND.
  • Camp Sakakawea is found near Pick City, ND.
  • Camp Ocankasa is close to Mandan, ND.
  • Camp Tonweya is situated near Valley City, ND.

Images for kids

See also

  • Scouting in Manitoba
  • Scouting in Saskatchewan
kids search engine
Scouting in North Dakota Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.