Scouting America councils merge to form Mississippi Riverlands Council

Published 11:40 am Thursday, February 26, 2026

Two Scouting America councils in Mississippi have announced they will merge together effective March 1, forming the Mississippi Riverlands Council. The Andrew Jackson Council, based in Flowood, and the Choctaw Area Council in Meridian, have approved the merger following a yearlong review and planning process. The consolidation is intended to strengthen scouting programs, expand support for volunteers and families, and position the organization for long-term sustainability.

The new council will serve 28 counties across southwestern, central and eastern Mississippi, uniting communities connected by the Mississippi River and its tributaries. The Mississippi Riverlands Council name reflects the shared geography, heritage and sense of connection across the region.

“This merger allows us to focus more resources where they matter most — on Scouts, volunteers and the programs that serve them,” said Ken Kercheval, scout executive of the new Mississippi Riverlands Council. “By bringing our councils together, we can strengthen local service, expand opportunities for youth, and ensure scouting remains strong and accessible for families across our communities.”

The merged council will continue operating administrative offices in Flowood and a service center in Meridian, along with Hood Scout Reservation in Hazlehurst and Camp Bianchi in Meridian. Both camps will remain available to units across the council, with summer camp programs centered at Hood Scout Reservation and additional weekend and training opportunities at both properties.

Council leaders say the merger will allow for more efficient use of resources, additional program and field staff, and improved coordination of training, advancement and unit support. Unit numbers will not change as a result of the merger.

The merger has been approved by both councils’ executive boards and by Scouting America at the national level. Final legal filings will be completed with the Mississippi Secretary of State as part of the March 1 effective date. Additional details, including council branding and transition updates, will be shared as implementation continues.