While driving up Millcreek Canyon the other evening, I was appalled to see the fenced-off Boy Scout camp, Tracy Wigwam, in such terrible conditions.
The grounds were trashed, and the large wooden structures were decrepit and incredibly out of place for the outdoors. To see giant signs declaring camp themes as being about space, the Wild West and Indiana Jones and then to realize that the signs were being illuminated by giant Coke machines made me wonder just what the Boy Scouts are coming to.
In the past, the Boy Scouts were always one with nature. Activities included hiking, camping, fishing and learning about the conservation of nature. Today, going to these luxury camps equipped with Coke machines and a swimming pool seems to completely diminish the idea of loving nature. Tracy Wigwam's grounds are covered in trash, and the terrain itself is getting overused and eroded.
Is it fair to let these rugged areas become completely ruined just so that some young boys can go up and make believe that they are in space?
If the Boy Scout organization can't teach their boys appreciation and respect for the outdoors, then maybe they should give the wilderness back to those of us who respect it and instead go to the Fun Dome. I've heard they have some great rides there.
R. Annie Burbidge
Salt Lake City