A crowning moment not just for individuals but the Okotoks Scouts as a whole.

Eight members of the scouts received one of the highest honours one can get in the Chief Scout Award which takes a lot of time and dedication including nine years in the scouts program, going through the Beavers, Cubs and Scout ranks.

Okotoks Scout Leader Nick Wiggins says the amount of work that goes into being a candidate for the award is incredible.

"They work on a number of different projects along with leadership programs, camping and outdoor skills towards the final recognition piece which is the Chief Scout Award," he says. "It's really the combination of a lot effort, time and hard work over what can be nine years."

Wiggins says the award says a lot for what the Okotoks Scouts have done to improve their contributions in the community.

"It's something we've worked hard on over the last two years. Okotoks hasn't had any Chief Scouts for quite a number of years but over the last few years we're really focused on that community piece, the volunteering  piece, the recognition piece and this year we were pleased that eight of our scouts were award the Chief Scout Award."

Wiggins says the scouts are gearing down for the year but they are taking registrations for next season and anyone is welcome.

"Scouting is a great thing to be a part of and I would encourage to be involved with it. I know a lot of people thinks it's just boy scouts, girls have been in scouts for 20 plus years, we have a number of girls in scouts in Okotoks and a fact that a couple of those receiving the Chief Scout Award were girls this year as well."

For information on joining the Okotoks Scouts click here.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com