Cub Scouts celebrate Winter Day

Nearly 40 Cub Scouts from around the Flathead Valley came together Feb. 19 to learn about the Montana ecosystem at Lone Pine State Park.

Kids ages 5 to 11 spent the morning exploring the park with members of the AmeriCorps Volunteer program. Cub Scouts learned how small animals forage for food in the winter, discussed local predators and learned about some of the incredible abilities animals exhibit in order to camouflage and survive in the wilderness.

“We encourage Scouts of all ages to get outdoors,” Keri Barr, Cubmaster of Pack 4923, Bigfork, said in a press release. “We believe they are never too young to learn about the area and how to be comfortable in the woods. Part of that experience is learning about the animals they may encounter while out there.”

This is the second year that Barr has helped coordinate the event.

“Our programs vary, but we always aim to be interactive,” Lone Pine State Park ranger Julia Smit said.

Smit encourages families to stop by the Visitor Center where interpretive displays introduce kids to the wildlife and forest ecology located within the park.

Cub Scouts is a year round program in the Flathead Valley. By using a “play with purpose” approach based on different topics such as hiking, nature, science, citizenship, first aid, sports and more, a Cub Scout advances toward their badge of rank. Once an adventure is completed, he or she receives recognition in the form of an adventure loop or adventure pin. Boys and girls from kindergarten to fifth grade are welcome.

For more information about Cub Scouts or to find a nearby unit, visit www.beascout.org.

For more information about Lone Pine State Park, visit fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lone-pine/