Farmer Scout Interest Badge

Badge Requirements

Farmer

Do ONE of the following sections, and produce proper accounts showing business methods:

A. POULTRY

1. Keep at least six head of poultry for a minimum of 12 months and demonstrate that you have a practical knowledge of:
   1. The advantages and disadvantages of four popular breeds in relation to their value as egg producers or table birds.
   2. Handling birds and recognising those that are not healthy.
   3. Managing grass and earth runs.
2. Discuss with the examiner the treatment of a broody hen and explain the running of an incubator.
3. Demonstrate how to feed chicks and young birds and know the different methods of rearing them.

B. DAIRY CATTLE

1. Be able to milk.
2. Explain the pasteurisation of milk and the care and cleanliness of dairy utensils and appliances.
3. Test the milk of at least five cows (individually) for 10 days each in accordance with the requirements of the local health authorities.
4. Demonstrate a knowledge of the common cattle diseases and their treatment.
5. Explain the necessity of dipping.

C. BEEF CATTLE AND GOATS

1. Produce evidence that you have kept at least 3 beef-producing animals or goats for the last 12 months.
2. Discuss with the examiner the nutritional requirements of beef cattle or goats.
3. Discuss with the examiner three important diseases of cattle or goats and how they can be prevented.
4. Explain the necessity for dipping.
5. Discuss the conditions which will lead to condemnation of a carcass.

D. SHEEP

1. Produce evidence that you have kept at least 3 sheep for the last 12 months.
2. Discuss with the examiner three important diseases of sheep and how they can be prevented.
3. Describe the grading system for wool OR Describe the grading system for mutton and lamb.
4. Discuss the effects of nutrition on wool or carcass quality.
5. Draw up and present to the examiner a deworming and vaccination programme for sheep.

E. CROPS

1. Recognise common crops in the field. Recognise weeds and common insect pests and explain how to eliminate them.
2. Show a general knowledge of sowing and harvesting one crop of your own choice. Show an acquaintance with routine seasonal work on a farm.
3. Explain the following:
   1. The ways in which soil is kept fertile and erosion prevented.
   2. The necessity for rotation of crops.
   3. The chief pests and diseases.
4. Produce evidence that you have raised at least one summer and one winter crop.

Safe From Harm: Whilst completing the requirements for this badge, Scouts must not be placed in hazardous or dangerous situations under any circumstances. All activities must comply with SCOUTS South Africa Safe from Harm framework and be supervised by responsible adults. Participation should offer meaningful learning or service experiences while ensuring the Scout's safety and well-being at all times.

Badge Requirements in printable PDF format

• Farmer (PDF)

Explore More Opportunities

• My Scout Journey - An overview of your path in Scouting - from joining to earning top awards like the Springbok Award.
• Scout Advancement Programme - The core steps Scouts follow to build skills and earn theme badges and advancement badges.
• Scoutcraft Badges - Aimed at Scouts 11 to 13. Fun, hands-on badges that build confidence, essential skills, and lay the foundation for Interest Badges.
• Scout Interest Badges - Aimed at Scouts 13 and older. Badges that promote personal growth through exploring interests, hobbies, and skills.
• Scout Challenge Awards - Special awards for leadership, service, and reaching top milestones in Scouting.
• Food for Life