East End Boy Scouts attend the 2013 National Boy Scout Jamboree in West Virginia

Approx. 200 Boy Scouts from Suffolk County are returning home today from attending the 2013 National Boy Scout Jamboree.  The event had a total attendance of 40,000 Scouts from all over the World at the brand new Summit Bechtel Scout Reserve in West Virginia.  The Jambo started on July 15th and closes today July 24th .  The Scouts had a great time and will arrive home late tonight.  Many adults described it as Scouting's version of Woodstock.  Here are some interesting facts about the National Jamboree.

2013 NATIONAL SCOUT JAMBOREE FUN FACTS 

POPULATION GROWTH: The 2013 National Scout Jamboree is expected to draw about 40,000 Scouts, Venturers, volunteers, and staff from all over the world, and up to 50,000 visitors, all gathered together for a celebration of Scouting.

MOVING DAY: Beginning July 15, the population of the Summit is expected to exceed that of the third-largest city in West Virginia.LOCATION, LOCATION,

LOCATION: Sitting on more than 10,000 acres in the mountains of West Virginia, the Summit is within a 10-hour drive of more than 70 percent of the United States population.

GIVING BACK: Approximately 7,000 dedicated volunteers will live and work at the jamboree site, donating more than half a million hours of service to help ensure all youth participants have the experience of a lifetime.

BEATING THE HEAT: Participants are encouraged to stay hydrated by drinking up to one quart of water per hour during activity times. That will be more than 2.6 million quarts of water consumed—enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

CLEANING UP: More than 300 permanent shower houses are located at the Summit site.GREEN ENVY: Jamboree participants are expected to collect 50 tons of recyclable goods—10 times more than what was recycled at the 2005 jamboree.

KEEPING THE FAITH: Approximately 35 different faith groups are represented among participants, Scout leaders, and staff for the 2013 National Scout Jamboree.

WHAT TO DO: The Summit is ranked No. 1 in the world in total mileage for zip lining, with 15 zip lines and a total length of 5.45 miles. The Summit is also ranked No. 1 in the world in total mileage for canopy tours, with a total of 56 stations.

HIGH POINT: Elevation reaches its highest point at 2,798 feet at the Garden Ground area of the Summit.

SUPPLIES FOR SCOUTS: The 75,000-square-foot Edward H. and Jeanne Arnold Logistics Center is the focal point for receiving, assembly, and distribution of all supplies. It is estimated the inventory will turn a total of five times during the 10 day event.

PATCHWORK: Scouts will work on the requirements for an estimated 40,000 merit badges during the jamboree, although not all badges will be earned here. (Many merit badge requirements involve longer time frames).