Scouts can earn marine-themed badges and patches by joining us for Scout events, on-demand and virtual workshops.

Scout Programs Flyer

Scouts BSA Merit Badges

Scouts may complete all merit badge requirements during these workshops, which combine hands-on classroom activities, field exploration and discussions. We offer four workshops: Kayaking, Fish & Wildlife Management (coming soon!), Environmental Science, and Oceanography on a rotating basis throughout the year. These interactive workshops are led by a Mote educator who has fulfilled all requirements as indicated by the BSA and is a registered Merit Badge Counselor. Scouts must bring their blue cards with them or connect to the Merit Badge Counselor in Scoutbook in order to earn the badge. Virtual Workshops are also available.

Please review our updated Program Policies, including cancellation and refund information, before registering for a program.

Program Policies

On-Demand Merit Badge Workshops

Oceanography Scout Merit Badge (Onsite)

In this hands-on workshop, Scouts will explore the Sarasota Bay ecosystem and learn about the importance of the ocean. Workshop activities will be conducted both inside and outdoors and all requirements for the Oceanography Merit Badge will be fulfilled during the 3-hour program. Additional details on preparation for the workshop will be included in your confirmation email. Groups will have the option to add aquarium admission to their workshop for an additional fee. Ten participant minimum. 
Who: This program is designed for members of Scouts BSA in grades 6-12
When: Contact us to schedule a private workshop for your troop
Contact: 941.388.4441 ext. 229 or scouts@mote.org

Environmental Science Scout Merit Badge (Onsite)

Scouts will make observations and carry out experiments to learn more about our natural world during this hands-on workshop. Workshop activities will be conducted both inside and outdoors. All requirements for the Environmental Science Merit Badge will be fulfilled during the 3-hour program. Information on prerequisites and how to prep for the workshop will be included in your confirmation email. Groups will have the option to add aquarium admission to their workshop for an additional fee. Ten participant minimum. 
Who: This program is designed for members of Scouts BSA in grades 6-12
When: Contact us to schedule a private workshop for your troop
Contact: 941.388.4441 ext. 229 or scouts@mote.org

Kayaking Scout Merit Badge (Onsite)

Scouts will learn basic water safety and kayaking skills.  Workshop activities will be conducted both inside and outdoors. All requirements for the Kayaking Merit Badge will be fulfilled during the 5-hour program. Information on prerequisites and how to prep for the workshop will be included in your confirmation email; Scouts must complete workbook prerequisites, pass a swim safety test, and have a medical history that allows for the Scout to participate. SWIMMING SKILLS ARE REQUIRED. Ten participant capacity (Scouts only).
Who: This program is designed for members of Scouts BSA in grades 6-12
When: Contact us to schedule a private workshop for your troop
Contact: 941.388.4441 ext. 229 or scouts@mote.org

Fish & Wildlife Management Scout Merit Badge (Onsite) - coming soon!

Virtual Merit Badge Workshops

Our Virtual Merit Badge programs are available to any Scout, wherever you live. We receive such incredible feedback from Scouts and their families about our virtual workshops, that we will continue bringing these opportunities to you. These programs are open to Scouts anywhere in the world. 

Important Notes: Registration fee is PER Scout. If you have more than one child who will be attending, EACH must be registered. Only registered participants will have their requirements reviewed and returned for badge approval. See policies linked above before registering for a program. Participants may add a Mote badge for a small fee as an add-on to their registration. If selected at registration, the badge will be shipped to the Scout after successful completion of the virtual workshop and its requirements.

Program Policies

Oceanography Scout Merit Badge (Virtual)

Join us as we review the badge workbook and explore the concepts with some demonstrations. Your registration confirmation email will contain your Oceanography workbook and a guide containing a list of household materials to gather to be used in a few hands-on activities. Most merit badge requirements will be completed during this live, interactive virtual workshop, however, Scouts will be required to complete one requirement on their own after the workshop and submit it for credit. Your Mote Educator will give you details and information during your workshop and via email. 
Who: This program is designed for members of Scouts BSA in grades 6-12
How: Secure and private Zoom webinar
Fee: $15.00 per Scout
When: Select Saturdays  @ 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST (UTC -5)

  • October 7, 2023
  • March 2, 2024
  • June 8, 2024
  • October 12, 2024

Register Now

Environmental Science Scout Merit Badge (Virtual)

Join us as we review the badge workbook and explore the concepts with some demonstrations. Your registration confirmation email will contain your Environmental Science workbook and a guide containing a list of household materials to gather to be used in a few hands-on activities. Most merit badge requirements will be completed during this live, interactive virtual workshop, however, Scouts will be required to complete several requirements on their own - one before the workshop and two after the workshop to submit for credit. Your Mote Educator will give you details and information during your workshop and via email. 
Who: This program is designed for members of Scouts BSA in grades 6-12
How: Secure and private Zoom webinar
Fee: $20.00 per Scout
When: Select Saturdays @ 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST (UTC -5)

  • February 10, 2024
  • May 4, 2024
  • September 21, 2024

Register Now

Additional Details: These virtual workshops are led by a Mote educator who has fulfilled all requirements as indicated by the BSA, including safety courses and merit badge counselor training. Private virtual workshops available for your Scout Troop. Email scouts@mote.org for additional details including fee and availability.

Girl Scout Programs

We offer a variety of field and STEM programs on the weekends for Girl Scout troops. Mote educators can lead these marine science programs to align with the Girl Scouts National Leadership Journeys for Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, and Cadettes, or we can work with you to create a customized educational program (including virtual ones!) to ensure we provide the perfect program for you! 

Minimum Group Size: 10 Girl Scouts.
Contact: 941.388.4441 ext. 229 or scouts@mote.org

Program Policies

 

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