winter - Yellowstone Association
Transcription
winter - Yellowstone Association
WINTER 2014–15 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE Inspire. Educate. Preserve. 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org ii Though Yellowstone National Park is remarkable in every season, the park in winter is truly a magical place. A winter visit to Yellowstone will leave you with lasting memories of steaming geyser basins, incredible wildlife watching, and dramatic snowy landscapes. Since 1933 the nonprofit Yellowstone Association has been the official education partner of Yellowstone National Park. Through the Yellowstone Association Institute, they have helped connect thousands of people to Yellowstone with their in-depth educational programs. Together, we work to provide a range of opportunities for visitors to learn about and enjoy all that Yellowstone has to offer. The Institute offers a variety of courses to help you experience Yellowstone this winter. We look forward to welcoming you during this spectacular season. YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE STAFF Resident Instructors Shauna Baron Carolyn Harwood Danielle Oyler Amy Renfranz Contact Center Lori Doss Contact Center Manager Debbie Fellows Information Specialist Management Jessica Haas Program Manager Youth/College John Harmer Operations Manager Terri McConnell Volunteer Coordinator Zack Park Program Manager Lodging and Learning/ Private Tours Bonnie Quinn Lamar Campus Manager Jenna Vagias Program Manager Field Seminars Ken Voorhis Director of Education Dan Wenk SUPERINTENDENT Yellowstone National Park COVER JOHN NICHOLS/YA Whether you are coming to Yellowstone for the first time with friends or family, or this is your umpteenth trip and you want to pursue a special interest, we have a program for you. The Yellowstone Association Institute, in partnership with the National Park Service, provides educational programming that helps connect people to Yellowstone National Park and our natural world. Our programs fall into four categories!—!Youth and College Programs, Lodging and Learning, Private Tours, and Field Seminars!—!all defined here. WINTER 2014–2015 INSTITUTE PROGRAMS 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS AND PROGRAM TYPES WINTER SPECIFICS Youth and College Flexibility is a virtue in this winter wonderland, where snow and temperature can change arrival and departure times or other program details. Instructors may choose different trails or destinations depending on snow conditions. In the rare event of extremely cold weather, program activities may be modified or cancelled to protect your safety. .+#.)/ƫ,.+2% !ƫ)% (!ġ/$++(ġ#!ƫ0$.+1#$ƫ college-age groups an opportunity to develop a deeper connection to Yellowstone. Register any time. 4 Lodging and Learning '#!/ƫ%*(1 !ƫ(+ #%*#Čƫ)+/0ƫ)!(/Čƫ,(1/ƫ %(5ƫü!( ƫ trips, in-park transportation, and optional evening programs. Register any time. 5 Private Tours .%20!ƫ0+1./ƫ(!0ƫ5+1ƫ$++/!ƫ %(5ƫ+10%*#/ƫ0+ƫ!/0ƫü0ƫ 5+1.ƫ")%(5ƫ+.ƫ/)((ƫ#.+1,Ě/ƫ%0%*!..5Čƫ0%2%05ƫ(!2!(Čƫ and interests. Register any time. 6 Field Seminars Field Seminars examine specific aspects of the park through a mix of fun field trips and classroom presentations. Registration for members begins July 9, 2014, at 8 a.m. Mountain Standard Time; general registration begins one week later. 12 Lodging Options 13 Instructor Profiles HOW DOES ALL THIS WORK? đƫ .!2%!3ƫ+1.ƫ3%*0!.ƫ+û!.%*#/ƫ+*ƫ0$!ƫ"+((+3%*#ƫ,#!/ċ đƫ %/%0ƫ+1.ƫ3!/%0!ƫ"+.ƫ !0%(! ƫ,.+#.)ƫ%*"+.)0%+*Čƫ including lodging options, schedules, required clothing and equipment, and our payment, refund, and cancellation policies. đƫ !#%/0!.ƫ5ƫ,$+*!ƫ+.ƫ+*ƫ+1.ƫ3!/%0!ċƫ đƫ ++*ƫ"0!.ƫ5+1ƫ!*.+((Čƫ5+1Ě((ƫ.!!%2!ƫ !0%(! ƫ +*ü.)0%+*ƫ%*"+.)0%+*ƫ".+)ƫ1/ċƫ(!/!ƫ!ƫ/1.!ƫ to read it thoroughly and return any requested information as soon as possible. We want you to be prepared so you can have the time of your life. đƫ đƫ "ƫ5+1ƫ.!ƫ*+0ƫƫ)!)!.Čƫ5+1ƫ3%((ƫ.!!%2!ƫ*ƫ introductory subscription to our magazine Yellowstone Quarterly. !((+3/0+*!ƫ//+%0%+*ƫ)!)!./ƫ.!!%2!ƫ $15 off field seminar tuition. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CALL US AT 406.848.2400. In the winter, you must come through the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana, because all interior park roads are closed to wheeled vehicles. DO YOU NEED SKIS OR SNOWSHOES? In some of our winter programs, you will need crosscountry skis or snowshoes. Snowshoes are provided for Lodging and Learning programs and field seminars based at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch. For all private tours and any field seminar based in Gardiner or Old Faithful, you will need to provide your own snowshoes. Skis are provided for some of our programs, but please check our website or call us for details and local rental options. HOW FIT DO YOU NEED TO BE? To rate the difficulty of each course, we consider distance, pace, elevation gain, and terrain. Many courses involve cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Their difficulty will vary based on your skill and experience on skis or snowshoes, the current snow conditions, and the parameters addressed below. For more detailed information about each program, please refer to our website or call us. ACTIVITY LEVELS Leisurely hikes up to 1 mile per day through relatively flat terrain on maintained or snow-packed trails. Hikes on snow-packed trails, or snowshoe or ski trips, up to 3 miles per day with climbs up to 250 feet. Brisk hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing up to 5 miles per day with climbs up to 500 feet, including some trail-breaking in snow. Brisk aerobic snowshoeing or skiing up to 8 miles per day with climbs up to 1000 feet; or steep, rugged, off-trail skiing or snowshoeing—including breaking trail in variable snow conditions. Brisk aerobic snowshoeing or skiing up to 12 miles per day with climbs up to 1500 feet; or steep, rugged, off-trail skiing or snowshoeing—including breaking trail in variable snow conditions. 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org 1 Youth and College Programs provide rich learning experiences that engage young people with the wonders of Yellowstone. The Yellowstone Association is committed to working with teachers and leaders of youth organizations and schools to inspire students to become active stewards of all wild places, in Yellowstone and in their home communities. YOUTH AND COLLEGE PROGRAMS REGISTER TODAY! “!Thanks to the staff at the Yellowstone Association for their outstanding work with the high school students from Star Lane Center in Casper, Wyoming. Every year we are provided with outstanding, knowledgeable instructors that interact with the students in a friendly and professional manner. In addition, we get a great view at night from our back deck. Thanks for everything and see you in February!” TOMMY R ., W YOMING 2 YOUTH AND COLLEGE PROGRAMS MY YELLOWSTONE ADVENTURE STEWARDSHIP OF PUBLIC LANDS For middle- and high-school-age groups Bring your group to Yellowstone to experience a program that provides an introduction to nature, national parks, and conservation. Students explore the natural history, geology, * ƫ1(01.(ƫ$%/0+.5ƫ+"ƫ!((+3/0+*!ƫ0%+*(ƫ.'ƫ3$%(!ƫ learning about the significance of parks and wild places to all citizens. Explore a snow-covered Yellowstone while you track animals, watch wildlife, take photos, paint, and snowshoe. Students will be led by instructors with extensive experience leading and teaching youth in outdoor settings. For college-age groups Introduce your students to the stewardship of public lands through the science, history, and politics of Yellowstone 0%+*(ƫ.'ƫ%*ƫ0$%/ƫ,.+#.)ƫ !2!(+,! ƫ&+%*0(5ƫ5ƫ0$!ƫ Yellowstone Association and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. Students will examine resource issues in depth—how different agencies manage resources; how land managers deal with different viewpoints; and what role citizens, organizations, and agencies play in the stewardship of public lands. -Ũ#(Ũ,#(,VŨ)(.(ŨŨ#0Ũ3- -Ũ#(Ũ,#(,VŨ)(.(ŨŨ",Ũ.)ŨŃ0Ũ3-Ũ,)''( PROGRAM FEATURES đƫWelcome orientation đƫField-based exploration of Lamar Valley and Mammoth Hot Springs đƫContent tailored for your age group đƫClosing ceremonies on the last morning đƫTransportation to and from Bozeman, MT and in-park transportation đƫLodging at the Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus PROGRAM FEATURES đƫField-based introduction to the park’s science, history, and politics đƫIn-depth case studies of Yellowstone resource issues such as wolf reintroduction, bison management, climate change, and recreation use đƫMeetings with agency employees and private citizens to understand various perspectives on each issue đƫIn-park transportation TUITION AND LODGING TUITION AND LODGING Up to 14 participants: $740 tuition per day Up to 14 participants: $3,915 tuition plus $1,600–2,400 lodging (depending on group size) 15–28 participants: $1,475 tuition per day 15–28 participants: $7,625 tuition plus $2,400–4,000 lodging (depending on group size) .-ŨŁ.#0Ũ.",)/!"Ũ,"Ũ86VŨ756:VŨ(Ũ)Ũ().Ũ#(&/Ũ.2-U Guest Speakers: $125 per speaker Lodging is available at the Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus for an additional cost (see page 12). .-ŨŁ.#0Ũ.",)/!"Ũ,"Ũ86VŨ756:VŨ(Ũ)Ũ().Ũ#(&/Ũ.2-U BUILD YOUR OWN EDUCATIONAL EXCURSION MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT IN ACTION For middle-school, high-school, and college-age groups Scholarships and Financial Aid *0ƫ0+ƫ0%(+.ƫ5+1.ƫ#.+1,Ě/ƫ!((+3/0+*!ƫ!4,!.%!*!ĕƫ Choose from our daily options and combine them to create a custom program. Your group will be paired with an Institute instructor who will supplement the program with itineraries and activities to meet the specific goals of your educational group. Contact the Institute for more information. Yellowstone Association members directly fund education by providing scholarships for teachers, who play a critical role in connecting people to parks, and financial aid for youth groups who otherwise might not be able to experience the wonders of Yellowstone. To find out more about these scholarships or to become a Yellowstone Association member, call 406.848.2400 or visit YellowstoneAssociation.org $!ƫ0%+*(ƫ.'ƫ!.2%!ƫ(/+ƫ+û!./ƫ! 10%+*(ƫ.!/+1.!/ƫand programs for youth and teachers. To learn more, visit nps.gov/yell/forteachers/index.htm. 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org 3 Lodging and Learning programs combine just the right amount of education and recreation. You’ll be based at park hotels and taught by our naturalist guides, who are intimately familiar with Yellowstone. Packages are offered in partnership with Xanterra Parks & Resorts® and include daily field trips, lodging, most meals, in-park transportation, and optional evening programs. This is our vacation package that covers almost everything and provides fun and discovery, too. Minimum age is 12. Rates are double/single occupancy and do not include taxes or utility fees, and are higher for holiday sessions. LODGING AND LEARNING REGISTER TODAY! NEW! WHY NOT WINTER Take the plunge into winter fun while exploring Yellowstone’s snow-covered wonderland. Treat yourself to easy and fun lessons in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing around Mammoth Hot Springs. Travel in a cozy van to look for wildlife in Lamar Valley. And enjoy a snowcoach trip to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone for a day of sightseeing, skiing, and snowshoeing geared for beginners. 2-day program offered January 9, 16, 23 Includes 3 nights at Mammoth +0ƫ,.%*#/ƫ+0!(ƱđƱĸĈāĊƲĥƲĸĉćĊ WINTER IN WONDERLAND Hot springs, deep snow, and cold temperatures combine to create Yellowstone’s spectacular winter environment. Spend five days exploring wondrous landscapes such as the Lamar Valley, the Old Faithful area, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Enjoy watching wildlife, skiing, and snowshoeing. Ćġ 5ƫ,.+#.)ƫ+û!.! ƫ!!)!.ƬĂāČƫĂĉČƫ *1.5ƬąČƫāāČƫāĉČƫĂĆČƫ!.1.5ƬāČƫĉČƫāĆČƫĂĂ Includes 4 nights at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and 2 nights at Old Faithful *+3ƫ+ #!ƱđƱĸāČćăĊƲĥƲĸĂČĀăĊ WINTER WILDLIFE EXPEDITION Discover the abundant wildlife of Yellowstone’s northern range. Travel by foot, bus, and snowshoe to observe and learn about winter residents such as pronghorn, bighorn sheep, bison, elk, and wolves. 3-day program offered December 24, 31, *1.5ƬĂĉČƫ!.1.5ƬąČƫāāČƫāĉČƫĂĆ Includes 4 nights at Mammoth Hot ,.%*#/ƫ+0!(ƱđƱĸĈĆĊƲĥƲĸĊĆĊ 4 LODGING AND LEARNING WINTER WOLF DISCOVERY Delve into the winter world of Yellowstone’s wolves with experts who share their knowledge about wolf ecology and management. Search for wolves and enjoy snowshoeing the park’s northern range, including the winter-cloaked Lamar Valley. 3-day program offered December 23, 30, *1.5ƬćČƫĈČƫāăČƫāąČƫĂĀČƫĂāČƫĂĈČƫ !.1.5ƬăČƫāĀČƫāĈČƫĂą Includes 4 nights at Mammoth Hot ,.%*#/ƫ+0!(ƱđƱĸĈĆĊƲĥƲĸĊĆĊ OLD FAITHFUL WINTER EXPEDITION Travel by snowcoach from Mammoth to Yellowstone’s winter gems, including Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Yellowstone Lake. Search for wildlife along the way and enjoy walks and snowshoeing around world-famous geyser basins. ăġ 5ƫ,.+#.)ƫ+û!.! ƫ!!)!.ƬĂāČƫĂĉČƫĂĊČƫ *1.5ƬąČƫāāČƫāĂČƫāĉČƫāĊČƫĂĆČƫĂćČƫ !.1.5ƬāČƫĂČƫĉČƫĊČƫāĆČƫāćČƫĂĂČƫĂă Includes 2 nights at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, 2 nights at ( ƫ%0$"1(ƫ*+3ƫ+ #!ƱđƱĸāČāąĊƲĥƲĸāČąąĊ YELLOWSTONE ON SKIS Experience winter in Yellowstone’s interior, far from paved roads and crowds. Ski quiet, secluded trails with grand views of the Gallatin Range, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and the Old Faithful area. Enjoy looking for wildlife along the way. 5-day program offered February 2, 9, 16, 23 Includes 3 nights at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, 3 nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge ĸāČĉĈĊĥĸĂČăĂĊƫ(Ski rentals not included) ĸāČĊąĆƲĥƲĸĂČăĊĆ (Ski rentals included) Private Tours offer daily options to best fit your itinerary and interests. Combine days for a longer stay. We’ll make sure everything, including optional snowshoeing, hiking, or skiing, matches your activity level. Your Institute naturalist guide will introduce you to Yellowstone, provide advice to make the most of your visit, and lead you into the wonders of the park. Tuition includes instruction, transportation for the day, and use of high-power spotting scopes and binoculars. We’ll also help your children work on their Junior Ranger badges. Meals and lodging are not included. Consider staying with us at our Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus and save 25 percent on your tuition (October 31, 2014, through March 31, 2015). PRIVATE TOURS REGISTER TODAY! đŏ “"Every stop was a highlight. I felt like we were seeing things in a way that was completely unique from the typical.” DIANA P., OKLAHOMA WOLVES IN WINTER Start: 7 OR 8 A.M. AT GARDINER, MAMMOTH, OR LAMAR Immerse yourself in the world of wolves. Learn about their historic reintroduction, their effect on park ecology, their behavior, and management challenges. You’ll be in the field with an Institute naturalist guide who knows where and when to look for wolves. Includes a short hike, snowshoe, or ski excursion if you choose. WILDLIFE WATCHING ON THE NORTHERN RANGE Start: 7 OR 8 A.M. AT GARDINER, MAMMOTH, OR LAMAR Discover the diverse and abundant wildlife of Yellowstone’s northern range. Learn how to search for wildlife and interpret their behavior. You’ll also explore the vital role each species plays in the Yellowstone ecosystem. Includes a short hike, snowshoe, or ski excursion if you choose. YELLOWSTONE BY SKI OR SNOWSHOE Start: 8 A.M. AT GARDINER, MAMMOTH, OR LAMAR Enjoy all-day cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in Yellowstone’s winter wilderness. We will be both active participants and quiet observers while learning about wildlife, history, ecology, and geology on carefully chosen trails. TOUR LENGTH Approximately 8 hours per day. DAILY TUITION 1–5 participants: $530 6–14 participants: $740 15–28 participants: $1,475 .-ŨŁ.#0Ũ.",)/!"Ũ,"Ũ86VŨ756:V (Ũ)Ũ().Ũ#(&/Ũ.2-U 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org 5 Field Seminars examine specific aspects of the park ecosystem through just the right combination of fun field excursions and classroom presentations. Our seminar leaders are experts in their fields and include professors, naturalists, scientists, and acclaimed photographers, writers, historians, and artists. Most courses are based at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch Field Campus in the park’s northeast corner or at our Gardiner, Montana Headquarters. See page 12 for rates and more information about lodging options while learning with us. Unless otherwise noted, minimum age for field seminars is 18, or 16 if accompanied by an adult. Please visit our website for additional details about each course. Rates do not include taxes. FIELD SEMINARS Member registration begins July 9, 2014, at 8 a.m. Mountain Standard Time. General registration begins one week later. NEW! OLD FAITHFUL FALL PHOTOGRAPHY OCT 5 AT 7 P.M.!!—"OCT 8 AT 4 P.M. Old Faithful MacNeil Lyons Limit: 13# ƱĸăĆĉƱđƱāąāĀĀā Crisp days, steaming geysers, bugling elk, spectacular colors—enjoy these magnificent seasonal highlights as you explore the Old Faithful area with a camera. You will find exciting ways of photographing with the eyes and mind of a naturalist. Learn how to recognize natural clues and use new technical skills to create memorable photographs. Practice these new skills on easy-to-moderate excursions to geological treasures that abound in this area. Beginning and experienced photographers welcomed. Rooms will be held until 30 days prior to the course. Call 866.439.7375 for hotel rates and reservations. WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER RECERTIFICATION OCT 6 AT 8 A.M.!!—"OCT 8 AT 5 P.M. Continuing Education Credit Our field seminars are recognized by universities across the country. We are happy to provide a letter of completion and supporting documentation that you can submit for university credit or CEUs through the institution of your choice. Teacher Scholarships The Yellowstone Association offers scholarships for teachers to attend field seminars. To find out more about these scholarships and to apply, call 406.848.2400 or visit YellowstoneAssociation.org. 6 FIELD SEMINARS Gardiner, Montana Wilderness Medicine Institute Staff Limit: 30# #$300 #141002 Are your wilderness medicine skills a bit rusty? Review and practice evacuation and decision-making guidelines in this scenario-based course. You’ll also receive current updates in the wilderness medicine field. Upon successful completion, you will be recertified in Wilderness First Responder and Wilderness EMT (wilderness portion only) for the following organizations: WMI, NOLS, SOLO, OPEPA, WMA, and WPT. CPR is included. Current Wilderness First Responder Certification required. BECOME A CERTIFIED INTERPRETIVE GUIDE NEW! YELLOWSTONE’S RESIDENT BIRDS OCT 13 AT 9 A.M.!!—"OCT 16 AT 4 P.M. NOV 19 AT 9 A.M.!!—"NOV 20 AT 5 P.M. Gardiner, Montana Jessica Haas, M.S., and Danielle Oyler Limit: 30# #$380# #141003 Hone your interpretive skills in this professional certification course presented in partnership with the National Association for Interpretation (NAI). You’ll receive coaching to make your programs enjoyable, relevant, and organized. You’ll explore using tangible objects to connect audiences to intangible ideas and universal concepts while practicing your presentation and communication skills. To earn certification, you’ll prepare a written outline of a 10-minute presentation, deliver the presentation, and complete an open-book literature review. Tuition includes certification and NAI fees. Shared lodging is available at the Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus. NEW! PLEIN AIR PAINTING WINTER LANDSCAPES NOV 4 AT 9 A.M.!!—"NOV 6 AT 5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Daniel Hidalgo Limit: 13# #$350# #141101 Discover the pleasures and challenges of plein air (open air) painting in winter. Begin with an indoor session about tools and techniques for painting at this time of year, plus the basics of beginning a painting. With the Lamar Valley as your subject, you will learn to capture the crisp chill of a scene and subtle beauty of snow—both nearly impossible to convey when painting in a studio. You’ll paint with oil because it withstands cold well, and sketch with charcoal and pastels. Your instructor will work with you each session and lead a group critique on the last afternoon. WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER Lamar Buffalo Ranch Dan Hartman Limit: 13# #$235# #141103 LAMAR VALLEY WOLF WEEK Gray jays, Steller’s jays, Clark’s nutcrackers— these are hardy year-round residents of Yellowstone. How do these and other birds survive the long winters? Find out as you search for them in and around northern Yellowstone. Without venturing too far from the road, you’ll likely see mountain chickadees, red-breasted nuthatches, and the gregarious jay family mentioned above. Perhaps a colorful pine grosbeak will appear. But to find more elusive birds, like the brown creeper, you’ll have to snowshoe into the wintertime woods. And you just might see a northern pygmy-owl, who survives by eating all these other birds. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff Limit: 19# #$723# 141202 Minimum age: 12 All meals included DEC 8 AT 5:45 P.M.!!—"DEC 12 AT 9 A.M. Please see page 11 for the description of this program. NEW! HOLIDAYS AT LAMAR DEC 13 AT 7 P.M.!!—"DEC 17 AT 9 A.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff Limit: 19# #$4,770# #141203 No minimum age Please see page 11 for the description of this program. WILDLIFE WEEKEND ESCAPE NOV 21 AT 7 P.M.!!—"NOV 23 AT 5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff Limit: 13# #$264# 141104 Minimum age: 12 Please see page 11 for the description of this program. NEW! HOLIDAYS AT LAMAR NEW! HOLIDAYS AT LAMAR DEC 18 AT 7 P.M.!!—"DEC 22 AT 9 A.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff Limit: 19# #$4,770# #141204 No minimum age Please see page 11 for the description of this program. NOV 26 AT 7 P.M.!!—"NOV 30 AT 9 A.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff Limit: 19# #$4,770# #141105 No minimum age Please see page 11 for the description of this program. WATCHING WILDLIFE WITH A SCIENTIST’S EYE NEW YEAR’S WILDLIFE WATCHING DEC 2 AT 9 A.M.!!—"DEC 6 AT 5 P.M. DEC 28 AT 7 P.M.!!—"DEC 31 AT 4 P.M. NOV 8 AT 8 A.M.!!—"NOV 17 AT 5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Brad Bulin, M.S. Limit: 13# #$585# #141201 Required by many outdoor employers and recommended for all outdoor enthusiasts, this course teaches you through classroom sessions and field exercises to prevent and respond to incidents in the backcountry. Upon successful completion of this 80-hour course, you will receive certifications in Wilderness First Responder and CPR. No previous certification is required. This season is the perfect time of the year to be a scientist in Yellowstone. You’ll be gathering information as you observe wolves, bison, and other animals with a trained wildlife biologist. Learn how each species fits in the ecosystem, identify behaviors, and examine more closely how and what the animals are eating. You’ll also meet other scientists working in Yellowstone and will have the opportunity to discuss their methods and findings. Like any seasoned wildlife scientist, Lamar Buffalo Ranch Wilderness Medicine Institute Staff Limit: 24 #$700# #141102 you are likely to be up early and out late watching animals and gaining experience in basic wildlife research. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Julianne Baker, M.A., and George Bumann, M.S. Limit: 19# #$444# #141205 Close the old year and start the new one at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch, where wildlife can be spotted right outside your front door. Bring your friends to enjoy daily outings to look for wolves, bison, elk, and bighorn sheep. Engage in lively discussions about these animals and other valley inhabitants. Class ends early on New Year’s Eve, but all are welcome to stay and ring in the New Year here in the heart of Yellowstone. 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org 7 FIELD SEMINARS WILDERNESS FIRST AID JAN 4 AT 8 A.M.!!—"JAN 5 AT 5 P.M. Gardiner, Montana Wilderness Medicine Institute Staff %)%0čƫăĀƱđƱĸĂĈĆƱđƱāĆĀāĀā Do you spend a lot of time in the outdoors? Have you ever wondered how you would respond to a backcountry emergency? This 16-hour certification course is ideal for hikers, skiers, and outdoor professionals who want to learn the basics of emergency care in remote settings. You’ll learn patient assessment, shock, wilderness wounds, fractures and dislocations, hypothermia, heat illness, altitude illness, and bites and stings. May be used to recertify WMI Wilderness First Responder. No previous certification is required. Shared lodging is available for this course for a reduced rate at the Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus. DIGITAL WORKFLOW AND PHOTOGRAPHY JAN 4 AT 5 P.M.!!—"JAN 9 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Cindy Goeddel Limit: 13# #$609# #150102 Explore Yellowstone’s winter landscapes and wildlife while taking your intermediate or advanced photography skills to the next level. In the field, you’ll practice advanced composition and digital techniques to create the best digital negative. Indoors, you’ll learn a fail-safe workflow to keep every image in your library organized. Learn to manage, optimize, and share your photographs, and put metadata, key words, and custom templates to work. This class requires specific camera and computer equipment; please read the program details on the website before you register. NEW! MAMMOTH MICROBES AND GLOBAL CONNECTIONS JAN 7 AT 7 P.M.!!—"JAN 9 AT 5 P.M. Gardiner, Montana .1!ƫ+1'!Čƫ$ċċČƫ* ƫ1/*ƫ!((5Čƫċċ %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸĂćąƱđƱāĆĀāĀă Examine Yellowstone in its tiniest details— the world of thermophilic (heat-loving) microbes that inhabit Mammoth Hot Springs—and how they link to environments around the globe. On short treks and in classroom presentations, you’ll investigate enormous terrace formations, steaming pools, and communities of microbes. Examine how a new integration of geology and microbiology is changing how scientists view life on Earth and throughout the universe. Snowshoes may be required. 8 FIELD SEMINARS THE ARTISTIC JOURNAL IN DEEP WINTER JAN 10 AT 9 A.M.!!—"JAN 13 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Eleanor Williams Clark, M.L.A. Limit: 13# #$465# #150104 Leave texting and tweets behind for four days of artistic field journal exploration. In the heart of Yellowstone’s spectacular winter wildland, you’ll enjoy abundant opportunities to observe wildlife and explore landscapes. You’ll learn to make a hand-bound book that can be used during the class. You’ll work with binoculars, cameras, spotting scopes, and reference specimens to enhance your observations. Experiment with calligraphy and drawing using pencils, pens, charcoal, watercolor, and other media; experience different results on different papers. Treat yourself to this connection to the land and its beauty during a winter break from daily hyperdrive. THE WOLVES OF YELLOWSTONE JAN 14 AT 9 A.M.!!—"JAN 16 AT 4 P.M. skiing Yellowstone for more than a decade and loves sharing her knowledge of the park’s wildlife, geology, and history. NEW! COUGARS: YELLOWSTONE’S SELDOMSEEN CARNIVORE JAN 25 AT 9 A.M.!!—"JAN 27 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch +*%ƫ10$Čƫ$ċċ %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăĆĀƱđāĆĀāĀĈ Meet the “ghost of the Rockies.” You’ll be introduced to these elusive cats of Yellowstone by the wildlife biologist who knows them best. Through illustrated presentations and field instruction, learn what cougars eat and how often they kill prey; how wolves affect their hunting success and habitat use; and what the instructor’s research has revealed about cougars in the Yellowstone area. You will also learn the detective work needed to find cougars—and go looking for them! You must be in good shape and have sturdy winter hiking boots that provide ankle support, because cougars live in steep, rocky, and rugged terrain. Lamar Buffalo Ranch George Bumann, M.S. %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăĆĀƱđƱāĆĀāĀĆ This course will satisfy even the biggest appetite for wolf knowledge and experience. You’ll begin with a comprehensive overview of wolf evolution, behavior, communication, and predation. Then you’ll learn about Yellowstone wolf restoration; how well the wolves are doing; and how they relate to prey species, scavengers, and other animals. In addition to some class time, you’ll spend plenty of time in the field observing wolves and their prey on the winter landscape, visiting the carcass of an animal killed by wolves, and exploring wolf habitat. NEW! LEARNING TO SKI IN WONDERLAND JAN 17 AT 9 A.M.!!—"JAN 19 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Julianne Baker, M.A. %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăćĆƱđƱāĆĀāĀć Come learn to cross-country ski in one of the most exciting places to enjoy this winter activity—Yellowstone’s northern range. You’ll begin with a lesson that teaches the basics. Then you’ll practice on a variety of trails, learning how to manage the flats and small hills, enjoying smooth groomed trails, and tackling at least one backcountry trail. You’ll have time to stop and admire the scenery and take photographs. Your instructor has been NEW! THE INTELLIGENCE OF ANIMALS JAN 28 AT 9 A.M.!!—"JAN 30 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch George Bumann, M.S. %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăĆĀƱđāĆĀāĀĉ What is the raven’s word for eagle? How does a wolf know when to give up chase? How do animals pass on information through time? Delve into these and other questions of animal intelligence by directly observing Yellowstone’s winter wildlife. You’ll learn to decipher body language, behavior, and vocalizations for clues about intelligence. Watch how different species interact with each other and their environment. Explore how they learn and pass their knowledge to their offspring. And consider how this information applies to other species—including those you may know from home. SNOW TRACKING JAN 31 AT 9 A.M.!!—"FEB 2 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch )!/ƫ(",!**5Čƫ$ċċ %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăćĆƱđāĆĀāĀĊ The white page of snow records stories written by the animals. Learn to decipher these stories from an expert tracker in the prime wildlife habitat of Yellowstone’s northern range. You’ll learn classic tracking techniques, such as measuring gaits and distinguishing species, and specialized techniques for reading tracks in the snow. You’ll also learn the tricks of casting tracks in snow and how to deal with melted out footprints. THE LIVING HISTORY OF YELLOWSTONE’S WOLVES FEB 3 AT 7 P.M.!!—"FEB 5 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch 0$*ƫ.(!5Čƫ$ċċƫ %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸĂćąƱđāĆĀĂĀā Spend three days with a biologist who has studied Yellowstone’s wolves since their reintroduction in 1995. You’ll visit places important to their history in the park. Learn about wolf behavior through stories of famous individuals, never-before-seen pack behavior, and other incredible stories amassed since the wolves’ return. You’ll also discuss what we’ve learned about wolf ecology and management. The Lamar Valley is the only place in the world where such a class can be taught—don’t miss this opportunity. SILENCE AND SOLITUDE: WINTER PHOTOGRAPHY IN YELLOWSTONE FEB 6 AT 9 A.M.!!—"FEB 8 AT 5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Tom Murphy %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸĆăĀƱđāĆĀĂĀĂ Spend three days surrounded by the quiet, stunning beauty of Yellowstone’s winter while learning photography techniques and philosophy from a pro who has photographed here for years. You’ll focus on landscape composition, ethics, wildlife behavior, and the technical challenge of photographing in a winter environment. Bring your digital or film camera. This course is ideal for beginning to intermediate photographers. If you use a digital camera, you’ll have the option to work with your images on the computer during the evenings. PHOTOGRAPHING WINTER SUN, SNOW, AND STARS FEB 9 AT 9 A.M.!!—"FEB 12 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch !..5ƫ+**!((5ƫ* ƫ+)ƫ%.'!* ((ƫ %)%0čƫāĊƱđƱĸĆąĆƱđāĆĀĂĀă If you know your camera well, then take this opportunity to capture the moods of Yellowstone’s winter. You’ll learn techniques for photographing snow, ice, and the grand winter landscape, plus tips to keep your body and equipment working in cold conditions. After dark, experiment with photographing stars and the night sky using available light. Lively class sessions focus on digital workflow and compositional techniques that develop drama and beauty in your images. You will need a digital camera that you know well, plus a tripod and laptop. This class is for experienced photographers wanting to hone their technique. NEW! PHOTOGRAPHING THERMAL WONDERS IN WINTER FEB 14 AT 9 A.M.!!—"FEB 17 AT 5 P.M. Gardiner, Montana and Old Faithful Terry Donnelly %)%0čƫĉƱđƱĸĊāĆƱđāĆĀĂĀą Sharpen your photographic skills during four days among dazzling snowscapes and steaming thermal pools. Begin at Mammoth Hot Springs then travel by snowcoach to Old Faithful. Along the way, you’ll capture images of Roaring Mountain and Norris Geyser Basin. At Old Faithful, enjoy photographing frosted trees and crystalline light that accompany the many hot springs, vents, and geysers. You will need a serious digital camera, sturdy tripod, and laptop. This class is for photographers with a strong understanding of photographic principles and their equipment. Rooms will be held until 30 days prior to the course. Call 866.439.7375 for hotel rates and reservations. WINTER WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY FEB 18 AT 9 A.M.!!—"FEB 21 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Meg Sommers %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸąĉĀƱđāĆĀĂĀĆ Calling all beginning and intermediate photographers! Here is your chance to photograph Yellowstone’s wildlife in winter. You will spend most of your time outdoors, finding and photographing many different types of winter inhabitants. You’ll also practice photographic fundamentals, techniques, and the ethics of wildlife photography. In class sessions, you’ll focus on composition, lighting, equipment, and computer skills. So pack your digital camera and sturdy tripod and head for the adventure that is winter in Yellowstone. NEW! MOOSE, GOATS, AND SHEEP, OH MY! FEB 22 AT 9 A.M.!!—"FEB 23 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Brad Bulin, M.S. %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸĂăĆƱđāĆĀĂĀć Yellowstone is one of the few places in the world where you might see eight species of ungulates (hoofed animals)—moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, bison, and elk. And right now is the best time to look. As you travel the northern range searching for them, you’ll learn about their lives and history in Yellowstone. Hear about the interesting results of the latest research. Check out tracks and other signs they leave behind. And enjoy observing whichever ones you find. Who knows? Even the elusive moose might emerge when you least expect it. YELLOWSTONE’S WINTER EXPLORERS FEB 24 AT 9 A.M.!!—"FEB 26 AT 4 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Jim Garry, M.S. %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăĆĀƱđƲāĆĀĂĀĈ Yellowstone’s wild wintry country has long drawn hearty souls and colorful characters. Learn about them from a folklorist and storyteller, who will share stories about trappers, poachers, and explorers of the past two centuries. He’ll also tell tales of Native Americans who have been coming here for thousands of years to enjoy the warmth of Yellowstone’s thermal areas. Bring your imagination, warm clothes, and boots—because you’re going “out there” too. 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org 9 FIELD SEMINARS NEW! INTERPRETING WILDLIFE SIGNS LAMAR VALLEY WOLF WEEK LESSER KNOWN CARNIVORES FEB 27 AT 9 A.M.!!—"MAR 1 AT 4 P.M. MAR 9 AT 5:45 P.M.!!—"MAR 13 AT 9 A.M. MAR 21 AT 9 A.M.!!—"MAR 23 AT 5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Brad Bulin, M.S. %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăĆĀƱđƲāĆĀĂĀĉ Yellowstone’s diverse animal population offers a great opportunity to see an amazing array of behaviors written in the snow, the plants, and even the rocks. Learn to walk with “open eyes” that help you see the signs these animals leave behind— evidence of their food choices, territories, travels, and activity patterns. You will also try to figure out what the animals were doing and have fun answering the more interesting question of why they were doing it. Your new skills will reveal the world of wildlife anywhere you walk in the wild. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff %)%0čƫāĊƱđƱĸĈĂăƱđƲāĆĀăĀă Minimum age: 12 All meals included Please see page 11 for the description of this program. Lamar Buffalo Ranch )!/ƫ(",!**5Čƫ$ċċ %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸăĆĆƱđƱāĆĀăĀĈ Meet the lesser-known carnivores of Yellowstone: coyotes, foxes, lynx, bobcats, wolverines, otters, badgers, and martens. You’ll follow their trail from a way-back time when no carnivores existed to their present-day diversity of shapes and forms. In classroom sessions, you’ll explore their biology, ecology, behavior, and conservation. Find out why many of these species are rare and which are in danger of local extirpation. In the field, you’ll explore a marten’s habitat by mapping it with GPS (global positioning system) and GIS (geographic information system). You’ll visit other carnivore habitats too, and might catch a glimpse of the animals themselves. WILDLIFE WEEKEND ESCAPE MAR 13 AT 7 P.M.!!—"MAR 15 AT 5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff %)%0čƫāăƱđƲĸĂćąƱđƲāĆĀăĀą Minimum age: 12 LAMAR VALLEY WOLF WEEK MAR 2 AT 5:45 P.M.!!—"MAR 6 AT 9 A.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff %)%0čƫāĊƱđƱĸĈĂăƱđƲāĆĀăĀā Minimum age: 12 All meals included Please see page 11 for the description of this program. Please see page 11 for the description of this program. LAMAR VALLEY WOLF WEEK MAR 16 AT 5:45 P.M.!!—"MAR 20 AT 9 A.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff %)%0čƫāĊƱđƱĸĈĂăƱđƱāĆĀăĀĆ Minimum age: 12 All meals included Please see page 11 for the description of this program. THE BIRDS OF WINTER MAR 20 AT 7 P.M.!!—"MAR 22 AT 5 P.M. Gardiner, Montana 05ƫ1û5Čƫċċ %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸĂćąƱđāĆĀăĀć WILDLIFE WEEKEND ESCAPE MAR 6 AT 7 P.M.!!—"MAR 8 AT 5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff %)%0čƫāăƱđƱĸĂćąƱđƲāĆĀăĀĂ Minimum age: 12 Please see page 11 for the description of this program. 10 FIELD SEMINARS Drape your binoculars around your neck and head out to the late-winter world of Yellowstone’s birds. You’ll visit a variety of habitats looking for birds who spend the winter here, early migrants passing through, and the earliest returning summer residents. During the evening, enjoy armchair birding as we view images and discuss the finer points of bird identification, ecology, and natural history. NATURALIST GUIDE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM APR 12 AT 7 P.M.!!—"MAY 1 AT 5 P.M. Gardiner, Montana Julianne Baker, M.A., and Danielle Oyler %)%0čƫāĂƱđƱĸāČąĀĀƱđƫāĆĀąĀā Credit offered In this professional-level certification course, you will gain the skills of a naturalist and the experience for sharing that knowledge. Learn to understand and interpret the wildlife, geology, plants, and climate of a landscape. Acquire the skills for effective interpretation, including interpretive principles and how to facilitate and manage a group during a program or tour. You can become a certified interpretive guide (National Association for Interpretation) and Leave No Trace trainer (Leave No Trace, Inc.), and earn four undergraduate credits through the University of Montana Western. Most of the class is outdoors. Shared lodging is available for this course for a reduced rate at the Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus. EXPERIENCE LAMAR THIS WINTER! WILDLIFE WEEKEND ESCAPE Three programs offered NOVEMBER 21–23, MARCH 6-8, MARCH 13–15 7 P.M.–5 P.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff %)%0čƫāăƫđƫĸĂćą Minimum age: 12 Indulge yourself with a weekend surrounded by the quiet winter beauty of the Lamar Valley. Head out each morning with an Institute naturalist guide to search for the animals that thrive and survive here on Yellowstone’s northern range. Observe their activities, explore their home range, and learn about their strategies for survival. Listen and look for wolves; learn about their history in the park and the challenges still facing them. In the afternoons, enjoy guided snowshoe excursions or time on your own. Come, be inspired and enriched by the majestic and magical Lamar Valley. NEW! HOLIDAYS AT LAMAR Three programs offered NOVEMBER 26–30, DECEMBER 13–17, DECEMBER 18–22 7 P.M.–9 A.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff ,ƫ0+čƫāĊƫđƫĸąČĈĈĀ No minimum age Includes four nights lodging This holiday season, plan a once-in-alifetime opportunity at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch for your friends or family. Choose from private tour options, selecting the activity level that is right for your group. Led by Institute naturalist guides, you will be both active participants and quiet observers while learning about wolves, other wildlife, history, ecology, and geology of Yellowstone’s northern range. The package accommodates up to 19 people and includes 2 full-day tours with Institute naturalist guides, 4 nights of lodging in private, comfortable cabins, unlimited access to the Lamar Buffalo Ranch facilities, snowshoes, and in-park transportation on tour days. LAMAR VALLEY WOLF WEEK Four programs offered DECEMBER 8–12, MARCH 2–6, MARCH 9-13, MARCH 16–20 5:45 P.M.–9 A.M. Lamar Buffalo Ranch Institute Staff %)%0čƫāĊƫđƫĸĈĂă Minimum age: 12 Includes all meals Immerse yourself in the wolf’s winter world. Each day after a hearty breakfast, grab a sack lunch and head out for early morning road trips to look and listen for wolves. Learn about their habitat, behavior, history, and management. After the morning wolf action winds down, stretch your legs on a naturalist-led snowshoe excursion or enjoy the afternoon on your own. Dinner is followed by a presentation from local experts or listening for wolf howls under the stars. This special week includes catered meals that begin with dinner the first evening and end with breakfast on the last day. 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org 11 Exclusively for Institute students: When you learn with us, you can stay with us! Inquire when you register. If you are taking a private tour or youth program, stay at the Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus and save 25 percent on your tuition (October 31, 2014, through March 31, 2015). It’s easy to book your lodging when signing up for your course. Rates do not include taxes and are effective until March 31, 2015. LODGING OPTIONS Lamar Buffalo Ranch Field Campus Far from other development, the ranch in Yellowstone’s northeast corner offers comfortable lodging in a historic wilderness setting. You’ll enjoy a log cabin with a propane heater, a bathhouse with private showers, and a common building with fully equipped kitchen where you prepare your own meals. The Lamar Buffalo Ranch is available to participants in field seminars based out of Lamar. WINTER CABIN RATES Shared cabins $35 per person per night Private cabins (space available) $85 for 1–2 people You may also rent a sleeping bag and pillow for $20 Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus Perfect for families and groups, the Yellowstone Overlook features comfortable cabins on 80 acres, awe-inspiring views, and easy access to the northern section of the park. Cabins have self-serve kitchens for preparing meals and open floor plans perfect for group dining and evening activities. Enjoy our educational learning libraries. Groups that need a formal classroom setting can arrange to use the classrooms at our headquarters just down the hill in Gardiner. The Yellowstone Overlook is available for private tour participants, youth and college groups, and participants in field seminars based out of Gardiner, Montana. If you are taking a private tour or youth program, stay at the Overlook Field Campus and save 25 percent on your tuition (October 31, 2014, through March 31, 2015). WINTER CABIN RATES Electric Peak or Davis Cabin $300 per night for up to 12 people Bunsen Peak Cabin $150 per night for up to 5 people Field Seminar Rate $75 per night for private room in shared cabin 12 OUR INSTRUCTORS JULIANNE BAKER, M.A. , joined the Institute 12 years ago after a career teaching environmental science in Michigan. This experience, coupled with her certification as an interpretive trainer, makes her one of the Institute’s most valued mentors for up-and-coming naturalists. When she’s not teaching, she can be found hiking, skiing, or kayaking the wilds of Yellowstone. SHAUNA BARON is a resident instructor for the Yellowstone Association Institute. She has studied large and small carnivores and worked with the Colorado-based Mission Wolf captive wolf program and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Red Wolf Project, and as a volunteer for the Yellowstone Wolf Project. BRAD BULIN, M.S. , is a wildlife biologist who has taught science at the K–12 and college levels and conducted extensive field research on carnivores, raptors, amphibians, and plants. He is a professional wildlife cinematographer who spends considerable time capturing Yellowstone on camera. GEORGE BUMANN, M.S. , can draw, sculpt, and teach about all aspects of Yellowstone. He has a degree in wildlife ecology and works as a professional artist and educator. His art and writing have appeared in popular and scientific publications, and his sculptures can be found in collections throughout the United States and abroad. ELEANOR WILLIAMS CLARK, M.L.A. , has produced close to 200 volumes of artistic field journals. Her work in field journaling and landscape design involves ecology, sculptural aspects of landscape, and the influence of art in shaping our connections to the land. She currently leads comprehensive planning and design in Yellowstone National Park TERRY DONNELLY brings more than 30 years’ experience to his teaching. His photographic images are notable for their fusion of strong subject matter with revealing light. Terry’s work is featured in books, magazines, and calendars. Fine art prints of his photographs are in private and corporate collections across the country. KATY DUFFY, M.S. , identifies raptors on the wing and songbirds by sound. She is a licensed bird bander, specializing in owls, hawks, and songbirds, and holds an ecology degree from Rutgers University. She has lived and worked in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem for three decades and is an education ranger in Yellowstone National Park. BRUCE FOUKE, Ph.D. , is associate professor in the Department of Geology, the Department of Microbiology, and the Institute for Genomics Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign. He studies complex interactions between Earth and its many forms of life and conducts research at the Mammoth Hot Springs terraces. JIM GARRY, M.S. , weaves natural history, human history, folklore, and myth into spellbinding stories. A naturalist and folklorist, he has spent most of the past four decades in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. His latest book is The Weapons of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. CINDY GOEDDEL is a professional photographer and naturalist whose photographs have been published widely, have won international awards, and are in academic and private collections. She enjoys leading tours in the park for aspiring and professional photographers. An Adobe Certified Expert, she provides the ultimate in digital photography training. habitat. His photographs have been published in National Wildlife and National Geographic. CAROLYN HARWOOD is a resident instructor for the Yellowstone Association Institute. She studied outdoor recreation leadership and management at Northern Michigan University. She has hiked more than 2000 miles in Yellowstone. DANIEL HIDALGO has been finding the inspiration for his artwork in the quiet stillness of Yellowstone's wondrous landscapes for many years. He lives in Teton, Idaho, and teaches painting, drawing, sculpture, and pottery at Idaho Art Lab. He is also one of the artists behind “Dung and Dunger”—fine art paper made from bison dung. SUSAN KELLY, M.S. , is a doctoral candidate in geology and education at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign where she is designing place-based geoscience and astrobiology program.. Susan has worked as an interpretive park ranger in Yellowstone and as outreach coordinator for the Thermal Biology Institute at Montana State University. TOM KIRKENDALL has been exploring the outdoors all of his life and working as a professional photographer for half that time. Travels have taken him around the world, and his landscape work has been widely published in calendars, magazines, and books. He uses everything from an 8x10 view camera to a plastic Holga and keeps a darkroom to process and print his work. MACNEIL LYONS is a photographer, writer, and naturalist. He has more than 12 years of experience working in Yellowstone as a National Park Service interpretive ranger and education specialist, Yellowstone Association resident instructor, and private guide. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Men’s Journal, Montana Outdoors, and Big Sky Journal. TOM MURPHY owns Wilderness Photography Expeditions and conducts natural history photography seminars in Yellowstone National Park. Tom’s work has been published in The New York Times Magazine, Newsweek, Outside, National Geographic, and most of the major magazines that deal with natural history. Tom has published several books, including the series, The Seasons of Yellowstone. DANIELLE OYLER is a resident instructor for the Yellowstone Association Institute. She grew up in Yellowstone National Park and has worked for the National Park Service here as an interpretive ranger, backcountry trail crew leader, and as an intern with the Yellowstone Center for Resources. AMY RENFRANZ is a resident instructor for the Yellowstone Association Institute. Before moving to the Yellowstone area, she worked five years as a National Park Service interpretive guide on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Her published work includes a syndicated column, “Dear Naturalist.” TONI RUTH, Ph.D. , has studied cougars and other large carnivores throughout the United States, including Yellowstone, for more than 25 years. She spent many winters snowshoeing the park’s backcountry studying how wolf reintroduction affected cougars. Living in Salmon, Idaho, Toni is a contract biologist working with the Selway Institute, Panthera, and Idaho Fish and Game. JESSICA HAAS, M.S. , is a program manager and instructor for the Yellowstone Association Institute. She landed in the Rockies while earning her masters in environmental education and has worked for the McCall Outdoor Science School and the Sawtooth Association. MEG SOMMERS shares the beauty and grace of Yellowstone through her award-winning photographs. She visits the park and its environs in all seasons, photographing landscapes, wildlife, and wildflowers. She is also an enthusiastic naturalist, and brings her considerable knowledge of the area to the groups she leads. JAMES HALFPENNY, Ph.D. , travels the world teaching about bears, wolves, animal tracks, and cold ecosystems. He produces educational books, computer programs, and videos. He coordinated the long-term ecological and alpine research programs at the University of Colorado. His books include Yellowstone Wolves in the Wild and Yellowstone Bears in the Wild. NATHAN VARLEY, Ph.D. , is a natural and cultural historian specializing in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, where he has lived most of his life. He has studied many of Yellowstone’s large mammals. For his doctorate, he studied the effects of wolf restoration on the park’s northern range elk herd. DAN HARTMAN lives on the northeast border of Yellowstone National Park, where he operates his gallery in Silver Gate, Montana. He specializes in photographing rare or elusive wildlife in their natural WILDERNESS MEDICINE INSTITUTE , an institute of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), has been a leader in wilderness medicine education since 1976. PHOTOS Maria Bisso/YA: pgs. iii, 2–8, 11, 12; NPS: pg. iii; Matt Ludin/YA: pg. 2; MacNeil Lyons/YA: pg. 3; Dody Sheremeta/YA: pg. 4; John Nichols/YA: pgs. 5, 10; YA: pgs. 10, 12; Steve Hinch/YA: pg. 5; Pam Cahill/YA: pg. 9; Karen Withrow/YA: pg. 9; Nick Derene/YA: pg. 10; Tom Kirkendall/YA: pgs. 10, 12; Red Lodge Hiking Club/YA: pg. 12; Ken Voorhis/YA: back cover 406.848.2400!|!YellowstoneAssociation.org 13 Making A Difference Through Education. $100,000 128,308 16,000 5, 218 Countless in support of teacher scholarships and youth programs hours of experiential learning volunteer hours in support of Yellowstone students benefited from 600 in-depth programs once-in-a-lifetime moments Institute statistics from 2013 COME LIVE YELLOWSTONE WITH US ON YOUR NEXT VISIT!