Note: Participants can sign up for either one or both of the dates for this class. Although the basic approach is the same for both dates, there will be a variety of habitats and sign, making it ideal but not necessary to attend both classes.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 2023, 1:00PM - 5:00PM
SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 2023, 1:00PM - 5:00PM
INSTRUCTORS:
LINDA JO HUNTER
AND
JANE DOUDNEY
LOCATION:
GIFFORD PINCHOT NATIONAL FOREST
This is a half-day class to introduce the art and science of visual tracking in the wild. Class will meet in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest for an exercise in track and sign observation. The exercises will be what I call the “corral” learning process. A rectangular area containing interesting things will be previously marked out, creating a corral that can be viewed from the outside of the lines. Students will be asked to observe the area and write down all their observations. When everyone is done, we’ll discuss the results. This exercise will develop observation skills necessary for tracking.
This process only works well for adults because it will be done in silence and with patience.
What to bring:
Dress for the weather, bearing in mind that the class may be at a higher elevation. A notebook and writing implements are necessary. Bring water, snacks, and a small camp chair or something to sit on. Bring a hat, and wear long pants and shoes. Binoculars may help, and if you commonly use sunscreen or bug repellent include them as well.