This merit badge is very involved. Do not expect to complete it in one day, or even one weekend.
Scouts should complete First Class requirement #2 (orienteering) before starting this merit badge.
This merit badge has 10 requirements. Requirements are posted on the BSA website: http://www.scouting.org/filestore/Merit_Badge_ReqandRes/Orienteering.pdf
Requirements 1 though 6 involve familiarization with maps, compass, and orienteering skills. To get the most out of an orienteering event, we suggest that these requirements be substantially completed ahead of time.
Requirement 7 is to take part in three orienteering events and write a report on each. This can be done at NEOC events such as Scout-O.
After requirement #7 is completed, then it’s time to work on the next 2 requirements.
Finally, requirement 10 is to teach orienteering to others. This is best done after Scouts have orienteering experience and have mastered orienteering skills and techniques.
Resources:
- Orienteering Merit Badge pamphlet
- Orienteering merit badge workbook: http://meritbadge.org/wiki/images/1/13/Orienteering.pdf