Boy Scouts Go Nuclear!

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On a recent Saturday, FPL’s Energy Encounter were energized more than usual as Treasure Coast Scouts built atomic models out of marshmallows and produced electroscopes from baby food jars—activities to fulfill the requirements of a Boy Scout merit badge.

Approximately 50 Boy Scouts and 20 troop leaders participate each year in the Nuclear Science merit badge seminar at the Energy Encounter. The day combines hands-on activities, question and answer sessions and at-home projects to expose Scouts to the various aspects of nuclear energy and how nuclear technology benefits humankind.

In 2005, the Boy Scouts of America revised a merit badge called Atomic Energy and renamed it Nuclear Science. The new badge contains activities that are directly related to what nuclear power plant employees do everyday.

“This merit badge is one of the more technically challenging achievements for Scouts,” commented Vicki Spencer, coordinator of the energy center. “The breadth of each session covers the requirements for the badge including building atomic models, seeing the effects of time, distance and shielding, looking for alpha tracks in cloud chambers and intensively studying radiation and nuclear fission.”

Former attendees have spread the word about this fun-filled day. Scouts register early to reserve a seat and many are sons of FPL employees. Treasure Coast Scouts are in the majority, but this year troops from Miami and Venice were represented.

“We are the third group to come from our troop and everyone has the same regard for the presentation,” wrote Gordon Holmes, Scoutmaster from the Trade Winds District of the Gulf Stream Council in West Palm Beach. “This has given the Scouts a good appreciation of what is involved in nuclear power generation and a better understanding of nuclear power in general.”

“It can take weeks, sometimes even months to earn a merit badge,” said Tyrone Fox, assistant Scout master from Port St. Lucie. “Very seldom can you go on an outing and receive a merit badge in one day. The boys had a great day, the material presented was educational and you run a very organized event. We’ll see you next year.”

“This is the seventh year the Energy Encounter has held this merit badge event,” Vicki commented. “We strive to provide fun with purpose and practical experience. It’s reported that each year approximately 5,000 Scouts earn the Nuclear Science Badge. FPL is extremely proud to assist 50 potential nuclear scientists earn theirs.”