I think it could be very useful as a sort of standardized adventure, a baseline of gear and experience that we all could share. I agree it may not be the most life-threatening, macho challenge but that is not the point.

My biggest problem: finding anywhere in a reasonable distance where I could legally take part! California does not welcome open fire or harvesting of even deadfall on its public lands. Even a debris shelter in a discrete location would be viewed as a major transgression if discovered.