What are we doing with Durango Nature Studies?
9:45: Arrive at Molas, introductions. Hike to snowpit site 10:00: Slope models experiment w/potato flakes and flour teaching about strong and weak layers 10:30: Exploring snow depth around different features to learn about trigger points and terrain traps. 11:00 - 12:00pm: Snowpit investigation looking at crystals, temperature profile, and density 12:00 - 12:30pm: Lunch and debrief of morning activities 12:30 - 2:45pm: Student-led group hike linking 2 or 3 chosen points on the map where they take turns safely leading us around terrain features and possible trigger sites. - Second snowpit on a different slope aspect for comparison to first - Calculate snow water equivalency based on density measurements from snowpit - Create your own watershed 3D map in the snow based on reading topo map - Snow shovel sledding - Animal tracking using guide, interpretive stops highlighting the ecology of the area 2:45pm: Debrief Circle and reflection on the day 3:00pm: Depart |
**BYOL** (bring your own lunch everyday! Or if at Purgatory, we will be meeting and eating at Purgy's/Dante's daily if you need to purchase food.) TRANSPORTATION: Monday: Optional Shuttle service from Durango Nature Studies to Haviland (van can only hold 13 people, so please come talk to me if you need the spot.) Tuesday-Friday: We have a private shuttle to and from Purgatory! It will pick you up at North City Market at 8:30 am, and return from Purgatory at 3:30 p.m, back to City Market. Don't be late! |