HERKIMER, N.Y. – The Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort is proud to host its 29th Annual Scout Jamboree Weekend beginning October 18.
For decades, the Scouts of America have fostered leadership, service, and a strong sense of community among millions of young Americans. Our Scout Jamboree offers participants a unique opportunity to further their scouting journey through immersive, educational experiences.
This year, participants will have the opportunity to earn three badges: the Environmental Science Merit Badge, Geology Merit Badge, and Mining in Society Merit Badge. Additionally, by staying at the KOA Resort, scouts will accrue prerequisite camping nights toward their Camping Merit Badge.
There are 37 troops collectively from New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Vermont that will attend the event. Each scout will participate in hands-on educational modules developed and led by professionals from across the country, ensuring a high-quality, engaging experience.
“It is with gratitude and pride that we have the honor to be a stepping stone for these young scouts,” said Dr. Renee Shevat. “We are thankful for another year and hope to continue this educational program for many years to come.”
We are proud to offer programs led by a team of highly qualified educators—professionals who bring both academic excellence and real-world expertise to our Scouts. Participants will learn directly from leaders in the field, including:
Tina Bickerstaff, PG, CPG – Lead Educator: Senior Managing Geologist with a nationally and internationally recognized consulting firm. Tina serves as the National Emerging Contaminant Core Team Leader and Regional Senior Geologist, bringing decades of field and leadership experience.
Kate Bickerstaff, GIT – Lead Educator: Holding dual degrees in Earth Science (Environmental Science and Geology) with a minor in Sustainability, Kate is an advanced degree candidate in Geology. She brings a strong background in environmental consulting, conservation, and wilderness-based projects.
Dr. Christiana Kim, Ph.D. – Lead Educator: A geologist with a doctorate in Geology and extensive teaching experience at the undergraduate level. Christiana brings professional expertise in commercial gold mining, blending academic insight with real-world fieldwork in mineral resource extraction.
Liana Agrios, M.S. – Lead Educator: A seasoned geologist and Remediation Project Manager with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Liana brings years of experience overseeing environmental projects in New York and EPA Region II. Her work focuses on complex remediation efforts and sustainable site management.
Kiki Papageorgiou – Associate Educator: Currently completing a B.S. in Geology, Kiki contributes hands-on experience in conservation and wilderness-based projects. She supports educational programming with a strong foundation in fieldwork and a passion for environmental stewardship.
Jordan McDaniels – Lead Commercial Miner: With over a decade of hands-on experience at the Herkimer Diamond Mines, Jordan is a seasoned expert in commercial mining. He oversees extraction and processing operations while also playing a vital role in preserving the longevity and sustainability of the mines for future generations.
As the Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort prepares to welcome hundreds of future leaders, the Scout Jamboree stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when education and community come together. We look forward to another unforgettable weekend of learning, exploration, and growth.
For more information (Tuesday – Friday) please contact Marie Edick at 315-717-0175
For information on Saturday or Sunday contact the Miners’ Village at 315-891-3099.
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