Rowing and the Trail to Eagle
Rowing 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.
Rowing Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 9 main requirements for Rowing. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in rowing activities.
- b.Review prevention, symptoms, and first-aid treatment for injuries that can occur while rowing.
- c.Review the Scouting America Safety Afloat policy.
- 2
Before completing requirements 4, 5, 6, and 7, successfully complete the Scouting America swimmer test.
- 3
Review the characteristics of life jackets most appropriate for rowing.
- 4
Do ONE of the following: row a fixed-seat or sliding-seat rowboat, or participate as a rowing team member.
- 5
Do ONE of the following: come alongside a pier and help a passenger, or demonstrate coming alongside in a sliding-seat rowboat.
- 6
Participate in a swamped boat drill.
- 7
Alone in a rowboat, push off from the shore or a pier. Row 20 yards to a swimmer and tow them to shore.
- 8
Describe the types of craft used in rowing.
- 9
Discuss the following topics related to rowing.
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 Rowing Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Rowing, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Rowing is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 2 weeks 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 12 Rowing requirements for you.
Rowing Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Rowing merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Rowing 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 Rowing merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Rowing in about 2 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Rowing merit badge?
Rowing is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Rowing can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Rowing merit badge have?
Rowing has 9 main requirements with 3 sub-requirements, for 12 items in total.
