HERKIMER, N.Y. – The Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort proudly celebrated its 29th Annual Scout Jamboree Weekend from October 18–20, welcoming scouts and troop leaders from across the Northeast for a weekend of education, discovery, and community.
For nearly three decades, this long-standing event has supported the Scouts of America’s mission to inspire leadership, service, and personal growth. This year’s Jamboree once again provided an immersive learning experience where scouts deepened their understanding of environmental science, geology, and mining through hands-on activities and professional instruction.
Scouts from 37 troops across New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont attended the program. Over the course of the weekend, participants successfully earned three merit badges — Environmental Science, Geology, and Mining in Society — while also fulfilling prerequisite camping nights toward their Camping Merit Badge by staying at the KOA Resort.
“It was both a privilege and a joy to once again serve as a stepping stone for these young leaders,” said Dr. Renee Shevat, owner of the Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort. “We’re deeply thankful for the continued support of the scouting community and look forward to carrying on this educational tradition for years to come.”
This year’s program was led by a team of exceptional educators and professionals who shared their expertise through interactive sessions and demonstrations:
● Tina Bickerstaff, PG, CPG – Senior Managing Geologist and National Emerging Contaminant Core Team Leader, bringing decades of leadership and field experience.
● Kate Bickerstaff, GIT – Environmental scientist and advanced degree candidate in Geology, specializing in conservation and sustainability.
● Dr. Christiana Kim, Ph.D. – Geologist and university lecturer with extensive experience in commercial gold mining and mineral resource development.
● Liana Agrios, M.S. – Remediation Project Manager with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), focusing on environmental restoration and sustainability initiatives.
● Kiki Papageorgiou – Associate Educator and geology student with a passion for conservation and outdoor education.
● Jordan McDaniels – Lead Commercial Miner at the Herkimer Diamond Mines, who guided participants through the process of sustainable mining and crystal extraction.
The Jamboree once again highlighted the unique collaboration between education and community engagement at the Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort. Scouts departed with new knowledge, practical skills, and a deeper appreciation for the natural sciences.
For more information, please contact Herkimer Diamond Mines at 315-717-0175.