Home / Programs / SOLR + DOT

SOLR + DOT LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS

Each July, Idaho FFA hosts the Summer Outdoor Leadership Retreat (SOLR) in conjunction with District Officer Training (DOT) at Cascade Lake 4-H Camp in Donnelly, ID. SOLR is a week-long experience where members build leadership skills through outdoor activities, workshops, and team-building in a rustic camp setting. At the same time, newly elected district officers take part in DOT, a specialized leadership track that equips them with the skills and resources needed for a successful year of service, while also joining in shared camp activities with all participants.

Schedule & Registration

  • The Summer Outdoor Leadership Retreat (SOLR) and District Officer Training (DOT) are held together each July at the Cascade Lake 4-H Camp in Donnelly, ID.

    • When: The retreat runs for one week each summer, beginning on a Monday and concluding on Friday. Exact dates are announced each spring through the Idaho Ag Ed Listserv and are also available on the Calendar.

    • Where: Cascade Lake 4-H Camp, Donnelly, ID - a rustic lakeside camp setting that provides the perfect environment for outdoor activities, leadership training, and team building.

    Transportation is available at no cost to participants with pick-up and drop-off locations in Jerome and Meridian, or students may be dropped off and picked up by an advisor or parent.

    • Process: Advisors complete registration online for both SOLR participants and district officers attending DOT. Registration typically opens in late spring, with deadlines announced through the Idaho Ag Ed Listserv and posted on the Calendar.

    • Cost: $200 per participant. This includes lodging, meals, camp activities, and training materials.

    • Payment: Payment is due before camp begins. Once registration is submitted, chapters are financially responsible for the full amount, even if students cancel.

    • Forms Required:

      • Participant Registration Form (online)

      • Medical/Allergy Information Form (including medications, dietary restrictions, emergency contacts)

      • Transportation Form (to reserve bus transportation or confirm drop-off/pick-up plans)

    • Confirmation: Students and advisors will receive a confirmation email once registration is complete. If a confirmation is not received, the registration has not been finalized.

    • Ensure all students are properly registered by the deadline and that required forms (registration, medical/allergy, transportation) are completed.

    • Collect and submit registration payments on time; once submitted, your chapter is responsible for the full cost.

    • Supervise students during transportation, camp check-in, and throughout the week.

    • Help students prepare for camp by reviewing the packing list, camp rules, and behavior expectations.

    • Communicate with parents/guardians regarding drop-off, pick-up, and transportation arrangements.

  • Transportation:

    • Idaho FFA provides free bus transportation with pick-up/drop-off locations in Jerome and Meridian.

    • Students may not drive themselves to camp. Parents or advisors may also drop off and pick up students directly at camp.

    Lodging & Meals:

    • Participants stay in rustic cabins with bunk-style accommodations.

    • Three meals per day are provided, along with snacks (students may bring sealed snacks for cabins).

    • Monday dinner through Friday lunch are included in the registration fee.

    Packing & Attire:

    • Campers may bring one suitcase/duffel, a backpack, and a sleeping bag.

    • Items to bring: reusable water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, hat, personal hygiene items, medications (to be checked in at registration).

    • Items not allowed: firearms, knives, alcohol, tobacco, vapes, illegal substances.

    • Official FFA Dress is not required at SOLR/DOT. Camp activities are casual (t-shirts, jeans, shorts, sneakers).

    Health & Safety:

    • A registered nurse is on-site throughout camp.

    • All medications must be turned in at check-in and will be stored securely.

    • Limited cell service is available at camp; emergency contact is available through Idaho FFA staff and the Camp RN.

  • For all questions, please reach out to Idaho FFA State Staff. Contact information is available here.

  • Who can attend SOLR?
    All Idaho FFA members are eligible to attend.

    Who can attend DOT?
    DOT is specifically for newly elected district officers. They participate in SOLR camp activities while also completing a leadership track designed for their officer role.

    How long is camp?
    SOLR/DOT runs for one week, Monday through Friday, each July.

    Is there a cost?
    Yes; the registration fee is $200 per participant. This includes lodging, meals, and all camp activities.

    Can students drive themselves to camp?
    No; students may not drive to SOLR/DOT. Transportation is provided at no cost by Idaho FFA, or students may be dropped off and picked up by an advisor or parent.

    What should students pack?
    A detailed packing list is provided each year. Essentials include a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sleeping bag, casual clothes, and personal hygiene items.

    Is Official Dress required?
    No; unlike other state-level events, Official Dress is not required at SOLR or DOT.

    What if my student has medical needs or allergies?
    All medical and allergy information must be submitted on the registration forms. Medications will be checked in with camp staff at arrival and monitored throughout the week.