Inspiring the Next Generation of Designers
Hogue Hosts Scouts for Landscape Architecture Merit Badge
Hogue Landscape Services hosted a local Scouts of America troop as they earned their Landscape Architecture merit badge through a hands-on, educational experience. The day combined learning, career exploration, and a little fun—planting the seeds for future environmental leaders.
On Monday, June 16th, Hogue Landscape Services had the pleasure of hosting a local Scouts of America troop as they worked toward earning their Landscape Architecture merit badge. The event was led by Amy, Hogue’s licensed landscape architect, and Jodi, the company’s Vice President of Operations.
Together, Amy and Jodi guided the Scouts through the full scope of the landscape architecture process—from concept to completion. The Scouts took a hands-on journey through the badge’s key requirements. Amy introduced the group to the design side of the profession, walking them through the foundational principles, sketches, and renderings that bring a vision to life. Jodi then bridged the gap from design to execution, explaining how ideas become fully built, functional spaces.
The group participated in design-related discussions and explored how landscape architecture connects to broader community planning. They talked about real-world applications, touching on everything from site measurements and drainage planning to redesigning spaces for improved accessibility and safety.
"It was an honor to coach this group of Scouts as they earned their Landscape Architecture merit badge," said Jodi. "Watching them connect with nature, learn the principles of design, and understand how landscapes take shape was truly rewarding. They are the future stewards of our environment."
As part of the badge’s requirement to visit a completed project designed by a landscape architect, the Scouts toured one of Hogue’s custom-built residential landscapes. Before their visit, they were able to review the original plans and renderings—giving them an opportunity to see how each element on paper translated into reality.
At the site, the Scouts evaluated how the design addressed spatial organization, entry points, sun and shade balance, and user comfort. They also examined how seating areas, structures, and planting choices supported both aesthetics and functionality. The visit fulfilled multiple components of the badge, including:
Analyzing the layout for defined spaces, circulation, and usability
Identifying plants such as trees, shrubs, and groundcovers by their size, texture, and form
Discussing maintenance considerations for each planting type
Exploring design adaptations for safety, comfort, and water drainage through drawing activities
The Scouts also dove into career exploration, researching different paths within the landscape architecture field. From design and maintenance, to operations– they learned about the training and skills required to enter the profession, along with insights into job prospects, certifications, and long-term goals.
And of course, no Hogue visit is complete without a little fun. After a day of learning and exploring, the Scouts wrapped things up by playing shuffleboard and shooting hoops—because at Hogue, we believe in working hard and playing even harder.
This hands-on experience not only helped the Scouts earn a meaningful badge but also planted seeds for future careers in landscape architecture—and we couldn’t be prouder to be part of their journey!
