Wilderness Survival - Trees

441 Route 9W,Alpine NJ 07620

20 February, 2022

Description

Broaden your knowledge of New England tree identification beyond just leaves. Tree ID SurvivalHumans have always had an essential relationship with trees. They provide food, fire, shelter, navigation, water, timekeeping, weather predictions and more. Trees are not only leaves, bark, and wood. They are worlds in and of themselves as hosts to countless resident organisms. You’ve likely seen moss and lichen on trees. Witch’s hair lichen, when dry, provides an excellent tinder for fire-making. Sphagnum moss is an ideal source of freshwater, wound dressing and bedding. Depending on your location, the presence of moss on a tree can be a good sign of north and south. If you happen upon a downed tree and examine the stump, the pattern of growth rings are a source of knowledge. These rings can tell you about the suns direction, seasons, fire, insects, and drought. The outward appearance of trees often reflects the influence of weather. If a region experiences high winds the branches of local trees can reveal its direction. In a survival situation, this knowledge is useful. It can determine where to build your shelter and what kinds of weather for which to prepare. With all the ways trees provide, it is of little wonder that humans have depended so much on them. It is also amazing to think that even after all this time, we continue to find new things to learn about them. Indeed, as teachers, trees remain some of our most important and valued. And to the survivalist, knowledge is the most essential resource of them all. Who should take this course:Budding naturalists and environmental stewards (pun intended)Outdoor recreationalists (hikers, snowshoers, cross-country skiers)Primitive skills and wilderness survival enthusiastsWilderness medicine & search and rescue membersPrerequisites:None. No previous experience required. What you should expect:A walk in the woods. An in-depth look at a specific tree species and its ecological environment. EACH CLASS IS DIFFERENT!Learn about bark, buds, identification features, and how trees communicate with others.Learn about their identifying features and their connection to their ecological communities.Learn about how to identify landscape features (elevation, soil moisture content, and slope). Learn how landscape influences which trees grow where.A collaborative environment for expanding your knowledge of local ecology.What you should bring:Dress weather appropriate. Students should come prepared to be outside throughout the duration of the course. Come prepared to be on your feet for most of course and be able to walk upwards of two miles on nature trails.Food and water you expect to need.Notepad and pen/pencil, as desired. Click Here for a CLASS PASS and SAVE!