1 gallon of water (8 lbs.) per day (needed in that desert environment) times three days equals 24 lbs. for each scout to carry in addition to their gear.

That's a LOT of weight for young, still growing (and therefore more easily damaged) bodies to carry! I certainly couldn't do it!

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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey