Brotherhood Day of Service: Kwahadi Lodge's Impact at Carlsbad Caverns

From the Desk of Vice Lodge Chief, Ashland Siddall

On March 8, 2025, six dedicated Arrowmen from the Kwahadi Lodge participated in the lodge’s annual Brotherhood Day of Service, a significant event aimed at fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.

This year, the chosen location for their service was the breathtaking Carlsbad Caverns, a natural wonder known for its stunning geological formations and rich biodiversity. During their two-hour commitment, the Arrowmen undertook the important task of cleaning lint from both the formations and the pathways within the Caverns.

In their focused effort, the Scouts managed to collect an impressive one and a half pounds of lint. While this amount may seem modest at first glance, it is crucial to understand the larger context: over the past four decades, an estimated six hundred pounds of lint have been removed from the Caverns. This ongoing effort underscores the importance of maintaining the natural beauty and integrity of such a delicate ecosystem.

Each year, the Caverns organizes a dedicated week of service, during which volunteers contribute their time and effort to this essential work. On average, this week yields around 30 pounds of lint, highlighting the collective impact of volunteer efforts in preserving this remarkable site. The necessity of lint removal in the Caverns cannot be overstated. If left unattended, lint can stain and darken the rock formations, ultimately causing damage that hinders their growth and diminishes the overall aesthetic of the cave. The unique air flow patterns and the movement of visitors through the cave lead to certain areas becoming particularly ‘lint-heavy.’

The location where our Arrowmen performed their service was identified as one of the most affected by lint accumulation, making their contribution all the more vital.

Among the six Arrowmen who participated, four successfully earned their Brotherhood rank during this event. This achievement was marked by completing the necessary ceremonies and fulfilling joyful service hours, which are integral to the Brotherhood experience. The four Arrowmen who attained this rank included scouts Hagan Crockett and Ashland Siddall, along with Scouts Shaun Siddall and Doepp Crockett. Their commitment not only exemplified their dedication to the values of scouting but also enriched their personal growth within the organization. The other two attendees, Lodge Chief Charles Moreau and Lodge Advisor Marshall Allen, played crucial roles in supporting the event and mentoring the younger Scouts.

This service project represents an excellent opportunity for Scouts of all ages to engage in meaningful work that benefits both the environment and the community. It fosters a sense of responsibility and connection to nature, while also allowing participants to contribute to the preservation of one of the nation's most treasured natural landmarks.

Overall, the Brotherhood Day of Service at Carlsbad Caverns was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of volunteerism and the impact that dedicated Scouts can make when they come together for a common cause.

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