BT: Butterfield Trail's Merit Badge University

Butterfield Trail 2026 Merit Badge University

Merit Badge University (MBU) is a one-day Scouts BSA advancement event hosted by the Butterfield Trail District of the Natural State Council at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith (UAFS). Scouts will participate in structured, classroom-style merit badge sessions led by registered and approved merit badge counselors. MBU provides Scouts the opportunity to explore new interests, gain hands-on learning experiences, and make meaningful progress toward rank advancement, including Eagle-required merit badges, while experiencing a college campus environment.

Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026 Time: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Location: University of Arkansas–Fort Smith (UAFS), Fort Smith, AR

Check-In: 7:00–7:45 AM Opening Ceremony: 7:45–8:00 AM

Morning Merit Badge Session: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Lunch: 12:00–12:45 PM

UAFS Announcements & Recognition: 12:45–1:00 PM

Afternoon Merit Badge Session: 1:00–5:00 PM

Cost: • $25 per Scout (includes lunch) • $12 Parent/Leader “Lunch Only” option

Notes: • Morning sessions will report to the lunch location once classes conclude. • Afternoon sessions will self-release upon completion. • Advancement progress will be recorded and uploaded online for unit access. • High school juniors may qualify for a $1,000 UAFS scholarship.

Scout-Includes lunch + Patch: Early until Feb 1 $22. Reg until March 1st: $25. After March 1st and at the door: $30

Other lunch: Early until Feb 1 $12. Reg until March 1st: $15. After March 1st and at the door: $20

MB Instructor-No Charge.

Staff: $5 includes patch and lunch

Advancement Class (Scoutbook Class)-No charge. Open to anyone

Contact: Erik Carlson – Event Coordinator erik.carlson@uafs.edu | 269-718-8155