Forestry and the Trail to Eagle
Forestry is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Forestry Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Forestry. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Prepare a field notebook. Describe the meaning of the term ecology. Identify the plants and animals that are important in your area.
- 2
Describe the importance of forests to wildlife, water quality, recreation, and the economy.
- 3
Identify 15 species of trees in your area.
- 4
Describe the forest management practices used in your area or state.
- 5
Visit a forest area and discuss what you observed.
- 6
Find out about three career opportunities in forestry.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Forestry Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Forestry, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Forestry is usually earned anywhere. Pick whichever setting lets you work with your counselor most consistently.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 6 Forestry requirements for you.
Forestry Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Forestry merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Forestry is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Forestry merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Forestry in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Forestry merit badge?
Forestry is most often earned anywhere. Any registered merit badge counselor for Forestry can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Forestry merit badge have?
Forestry has 6 main requirements, for 6 items in total.
