Frequently asked questions

What merit badges have prerequisites?

Scouts signing up for the following merit badges need to have / do the following BEFORE arriving at MBU:
Environmental Science
Requirements 3F and 4B will need to be completed beforehand at home
Photography
Scouts must bring a digital 35mm camera with adjustable shutter speed, f-stop, etc. Does not need interchangeable lenses. This camera can not be a disposable point and shoot camera. A cell phone is NOT a camera.

I am not receiving email updates. What should I do?

First, check that your troop registration on the main troop page is correct. If this does not work please check your spam folder for [email protected]. The method of sending out messages that is used by our site is sometimes marked as spam. If you are still not receiving emails, please email [email protected] for help.

Why is there an online waiver this year?

Due to changing policies, Auburn University has added new requirements for Minors to be on campus, and so a more extensive form is now required before Scouts can attend.

When can I register my troop for MBU?

Registration is available from now through 1/10/2025, or until classes fill up.

How can I register for MBU?

We're only accepting online registrations this year through our website!

Who should be doing a troop's online registration?

We would prefer that a troop's scoutmaster or committee chair process the online registration.

How does online registration work?

Online Registration begins with entering the troop information. This allows the troop to be assigned a registration ID. After registering the troop, one adult MUST be registered before any scouts can be registered. (Please note that at least one adult from each troop MUST remain on the MBU premises at all times). After the adult is registered then scouts can be registered individually. This is where the scouts select their merit badges and are assigned to a specific class. If all three classes are filled the scout's third choice will have to be reevaluated and changed. This allows for a true First come First served atmosphere. It also means that signing up on the web will give the scouts a better chance of getting the badge they want. If any changes to information provided in the registration needs to be made, or if substitutions need to be made, then the MBU Directors will need to be contacted.

Will we be enforcing 2-Deep leadership while on campus?

Yes, at least two adult volunteers will be sitting in on classes while on campus whenever youth are/will be present. If a class has a female youth registered, at least one of these adults will be female. We will be strictly adhering to this policy AT ALL TIMES while youth are on campus. While youth are not in classes or at camp, their troop's adult leaders are responsible for their scouts. Additional scout adult leaders will be very much appreciated to remain on campus to help us enforce this policy.

As an adult leader, will I be required to remain on campus during MBU?

At least one adult leader from each troop (preferably the scoutmaster) will be required to remain on campus at all times during MBU when their scouts are on campus. They will be responsible for their scouts and their actions.

What will be the maximum number of scouts per Merit Badge?

There is a maximum participation of 15 scouts per Merit Badge. This stipulation supersedes all other deadlines. So get your registration in early.

Are merit badges subject to change?

We do reserve the right to change merit badges where it is necessary. When possible we will try to notify you of those changes as early as possible and accommodate you whenever possible.

Why can't I register any youths for my troop?

One adult must be registered for each troop before any scouts can be registered. This adult will have the option of attending the adult classes at MBU if any are held. They will however be required to remain on the MBU premises for the entire time MBU is in session (Saturday 8-5).

Can I show up on the day of the event and register for classes?

Unfortunately, we will not be accepting any walk-in participants this year.

Can I make substitutions of scouts in my troop?

Substitutions can be made up through 2/28/2025, 8:00AM. A substitution consists of one scout taking the place of another scout for the same merit badge. The merit badge class cannot be changed.

Can a scout change classes after he has already been assigned?

Yes, if space is available and it is before the end of registration on 1/10/2025. Contact the MBU Director for assistance in performing this change.

What do I do if I forget my password?

Enter the email address that you listed when you created your account and the account information will be sent to you. If this doesn't work contact the MBU Director.

What is on the menu for lunch this year?

Bug Juice, Chips, and pulled pork sandwiches. If you have any other dietary needs please be sure to provide for them yourself.

How is lunch going to be organized this year?

There will be lunch waves. Each scout will be allowed to receive one decent meal (NO SECONDS). There will be all the bug juice you want. We trust that each scout will follow these guidelines and adhere to the "one time through the line" policy.

Will there be a listing of class locations?

Yes, that is just not available at this time, but will be available on the day of MBU. Each scoutmaster will be given a list of locations in the leader's guide packet given to them at MBU check-in Friday night.

Are troop campfires allowed at camp?

Typically no, we will have a central campfire on Saturday night and possibly a staff campfire on Friday night. Small cooking fires in existing fire rings might be acceptable, but will be up to the current MBU committee and/or campsite restrictions.

Will there be bathrooms available at camp?

Typically we will have some sort of restroom available, but this is not always the case.

Will there be any type of group picture taken at MBU?

Usually we will get a photographer to take a group photo, but from time to time we are not able to line this up. We apologize in advance if this does not happen. If a photo is taken, then you can usually order a print from the photographer at the event.

How long do I have to pay after registering online?

Two weeks or the registration deadline, whichever is first. All you need to do to pay is look up your troop roster. Payments can be made via the square link attached to the amount owed section of the online registration.

What methods of payments will be accepted?

All payments can be made via the square link attached to the registration page, or click here to pay.

Are you going to have extra shirts available to sell the day of MBU?

Yes; however, the shirts may have an increased price the day of MBU.

Will a scout have to bring anything with him to MBU for his class?

Pen pencil and paper is a must, as well as any badge specific requirements listed at the top of this page. If a merit badge book is available bring that too. Anticipate other badge specific requirements. If you have any questions contact the MBU Directors.

What is the dress code for MBU weekend?

Be dressed in Class A Uniform during time on campus Saturday. Be dressed in Class B uniform while at camp or any other times.

Are troops allowed to have a vehicle or trailer in their campsite?

No. All vehicles will be parked in one location. All gear will be carried from the parking lot to that location. So pack light (pretend that you are backpacking). Trailers are strongly discouraged. They take up more space in the parking area and often house more equipment than is needed for MBU.

Will event patches be available at the end of MBU?

Yes. This is why we are trying to finalize numbers earlier this year.

Do I need to bring my own blue cards for my troop?

No. Starting this year, we will be sending each troop a file after MBU concludes that may be downloaded and synced with their Troop's ScoutBook account.

What is to be expected of all participants?

All participants (youth, adults, and volunteers) are expected to adhere to the Scout Oath and Law at all times. Everyone will also be subject to any Scouting America, Auburn University, and Chewacla State Park policies and regulations.

What can happen to one of my scouts if they misbehave?

Any scout (or adult for that matter) found to be misbehaving will be removed from the class, put in the custody of their adult leader, will not receive any credit for the class, will not receive a patch, and will not be allowed to return next year. MBU is an intense program. We are all volunteers. We are not here to baby-sit. We expect your scouts to act like gentlemen, do what they are told and respect others rights.

Is water available at camp?

Water will not be available at the camp so please bring your own.