by Mike Matzinger
Scouting America alum Dr. Jeffrey Marion has built a career at the intersection of research, leadership, and outdoor stewardship.
In recognition of that impact, the Clemson University Institute for Parks (CUIP) has honored him with the Benton H. Box Award for his leadership in protecting the natural environment and advancing environmental knowledge and ethics.
As a founding member of the Leave No Trace Board of Directors, he spent its first decade chairing the committee responsible for shaping low-impact principles, practices, educational materials, and training courses that continue to guide outdoor ethics today. In 2014, he authored “Leave No Trace in the Outdoors,” the organization’s official book, and is currently working on a revised edition along with three open-source technical books to further expand access to this knowledge.
His contributions have earned national recognition, including the Department of the Interior’s Distinguished Service Award, the agency’s highest honor, and the George Wright Society’s Natural Resources Achievement Award.
Dr. Marion’s connection to Scouting includes serving for 5 years as a Scoutmaster and 18 years as a co-ed Venture Crew Leader. Working alongside scouting professionals, he has led the integration of Leave No Trace principles into handbooks, fieldbooks, training courses, and outdoor practices nationwide. For this impact, he has received Scouting’s highest conservation honors, including the Hornaday Gold Medal and Gold Badge, as well as the Distinguished Staff Alumni Award from Philmont Scout Ranch.
Congratulations, Dr. Marion, on a well-deserved recognition.