What's New at NOS- September 2023

Now that Summer is over we are jumping back into road shows and in-class education. And not only that but we had our last golf tournament for the year in September! In this months What's New at NOS you can see that we are always in the outdoor community inspiring exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat and dedication to community!

Fire and Ice Golf Tournament (Winnemucca), September 9th

A great big THANK YOU! to all of the sponsors and participants in Nevada Outdoor School’s 1st Annual Winnemucca Fire and Ice Golf Scramble Fundraiser last Saturday, September 9th at the Winnemucca Golf Course. The day was full of beautiful weather, great golf shots, and lucky winners!

NDOW Kids Fishing Day (Winnemucca), September 16th 

On September 16th Nevada Outdoor School assisted NDOW (Nevada Department Of Wildlife) with their Kids Fishing Day. There was one NOS staff member and one AmeriCorps member running an outreach booth as well as assisting participants with any fishing related questions or problems. The turnout was amazing.

NVORA OHV Summit, September 20th- September 22nd 

The Nevada Off Road Association (NVORA) held its 2023 OHV Summit in Tonopah, NV September 20th through September 22nd. The 3-day OHV Summit is designed to bring all stakeholders in motorized outdoor recreation together to share the concerns of all offroaders.

Hunter Education (Winnemucca), September 30th

On the rainy morning of September 30th, our two hunter education instructors taught their first Winnemucca Hunter Ed course at the Humboldt County Shooting Range. There were 6 participants plus a few parents who spent the day learning all about hunter safety and ethics.

Conservation Film Festival, September 30th

The Wild and Scenic Conservation Film Festival was hosted by the California Trail Interpretive Center and the Southern Nevada Conservancy at the Northeastern Nevada Museum. This festival showcased films that inspire environmental activism and help festival attendees learn what they can do to help protect and save our planet.

The Outside Guide: “Embrace the Chill: Preparing for Fall and Winter Outdoor Adventures”

 As the vibrant colors of autumn leaves begin to paint the landscape, and the whispers of winter's impending arrival dance in the chilly breeze, outdoor enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to embrace the changing seasons. Fall and winter bring a magical transformation to the great outdoors, offering fresh experiences and a chance to connect with nature in new ways. So, grab your warmest gear and a thermos of hot cocoa as we embark on a journey of preparing for fall and winter outdoor adventures.  Nevada Outdoor School includes Leave No Trace principles in its outdoor programs. One of the principles of Leave No Trace is “Plan Ahead and Prepare”. 

Ah, fall—the season of pumpkin spice lattes, cozy sweaters, and the earthy aroma of fallen leaves. It's also an excellent time to explore the outdoors before the winter chill sets in. Fall foliage is a sight to behold, with trees donning their vibrant red, orange, and yellow attire. Plan a hike or a scenic drive to witness this annual spectacle of nature. Don't forget your camera to capture the kaleidoscope of colors! Fall weather can be unpredictable, with cool mornings, warm afternoons, and crisp evenings. Dressing in layers is the key to staying safe and comfortable. Begin with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Nothing beats the chill quite like a warm drink. Pack a thermos filled with your favorite hot beverage—whether it's herbal tea, mulled cider, or that classic hot cocoa with marshmallows. Sipping a warm drink while gazing at the autumn scenery is pure bliss. If you're camping in the fall, a campfire is a must. Roast marshmallows for s'mores, share stories, and let the crackling flames warm your soul. Remember to check local fire regulations and always practice fire safety. Fall is a bountiful season for foraging. Hunt for wild mushrooms, nuts, and edible plants. Just make sure you're knowledgeable about what's safe to eat, or better yet, join a guided foraging tour led by experts.

When the world transforms into a winter wonderland, outdoor adventurers can't resist the allure of snow-covered landscapes. To enjoy winter to the fullest, invest in quality snow gear. Snowshoes, cross-country skis, and snowboards are your tickets to exploring snowy trails and slopes. Don't forget a warm, insulated jacket, waterproof pants, and insulated boots. If you plan to venture into avalanche-prone areas, equip yourself with the knowledge and gear for avalanche safety. Avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes are essential tools, but taking an avalanche safety course is equally important. Winter offers unique recreational opportunities, such as ice skating on frozen lakes and ice fishing in serene solitude. Bring your ice skates or rent them locally and try your hand at drilling a hole through the ice to catch fish. For a memorable winter experience, book a stay in a cozy cabin or try winter camping. Imagine waking up to the soft hush of falling snowflakes and sipping hot coffee while wrapped in a blanket of tranquility. Winter nights are perfect for stargazing and, if you're lucky, witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Bundle up, bring a telescope or binoculars, and head to a dark, remote location for a celestial spectacle.

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures continue to drop, transitioning from fall to winter adventures requires a few extra considerations. Keep a close eye on weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly during this transitional period. Knowing the expected temperatures and precipitation will help you plan appropriately. If you've been using your gear throughout the fall, make sure it's in good shape for winter. Check for wear and tear, replace worn-out items, and ensure everything is clean and well-maintained. With fewer daylight hours, plan your adventures accordingly. Start early in the day and carry reliable lighting sources, such as headlamps or flashlights, just in case you find yourself out after dark. In colder weather, it's easy to forget to stay hydrated. But staying well-hydrated is just as crucial in the winter as it is in the summer. Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel as thirsty. One of the joys of venturing outdoors in the fall and winter is the serenity and solitude. Embrace the peace and quiet and let the stillness of nature wash over you.  

Nevada Outdoor School is an Accredited Youth Program of Leave No Trace and can provide awareness workshops and training to groups, clubs, and organizations. 

As the seasons transition from fall to winter, outdoor adventurers have a world of beauty and excitement awaiting them. Whether you're hiking through colorful forests or skiing down snowy slopes, embracing the chill can lead to some of the most memorable and enchanting outdoor experiences. So, gear up, bundle up, and get ready to create your own stories amidst the changing seasons of the great outdoors, because “It’s Great For Everyone!” – Nevada Outdoor School   https://www.NevadaOutdoorSchool.org

Destination Recreation – Salmon River in Idaho

Idaho’s Salmon River originates from and flows through the mountains of central and eastern Idaho and cuts through the heart of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, the largest designated Wilderness area in the lower 48 states. 

The most massive river in Idaho and one of the largest in North America, the Salmon wends its way through the second deepest canyon on the continent, with its neighbor, Hells Canyon being the deepest. It passes through 85 miles of remote wilderness, and is a popular for river adventures, catering to all levels of river runners. This river is not dammed, like many others, so the water flow depends on the snowmelt and can be very high in early summer and very low in the fall. Whether rafting with a guide, or on your own, planning ahead and checking on water levels and accessibility to launch sites is very important. Sometimes high water can be treacherous on certain rapids and sometimes low water on other rapids can also pose dangers. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket whenever you are floating on the water in a boat. If you get tossed out of the boat in a wild rapid, the life jacket can save your life and help make your trip memorable for all the good reasons.   

There are three trips to choose from to float the Salmon River – the Main Salmon launching at Corn Creek Campground, the Middle Fork which launches from Boundary Creek or Indian Creek, and the Lower Salmon that launches at Vinegar Creek. To float the Main Salmon and Middle Fork, you must apply for a lottery permit at Recreation.gov between December 1st and January 31st and the lucky winners will find out around February 15th. Floating the Lower Salmon does not require a permit and you can launch a trip most any day during the summer, but be aware, it may get crowded, especially on the weekends. 

A trip on the Salmon can be exhilarating with giant rollercoaster rapids and wave trains and also relaxing with serene flatwater with deep green pools and rolling pillows to float over. For camping, there are beautiful and roomy white sand beaches with long, warm days perfect for swimming and playing in the water and cool nights to sleep peacefully under the night sky. The Salmon serves as the perfect opportunity to try rowing a raft, paddling an inflatable kayak, or stand-up paddle boarding for the first time. There are also plenty of opportunities to cast a rod to catch the next big fish or bring your binoculars and camera to spy on the variety of wildlife you come across. 

Why do they call it “The River of No Return”? It’s not as ominous as it sounds. For more than 105 years after the first European Americans came to the area, only one-way trips down the river were possible. The most commonly used boats were wooden scows, designed to carry heavy loads and withstand whitewater. They were then dismantled and used for lumber at the trip's conclusion. It was from these trips that the Salmon's nickname, "River of No Return," originated.

For anyone seeking to disconnect from the world for a few days and reconnect with nature and your closest friends and family, whitewater rafting on the Salmon River can be your next outdoor adventure.

For more information on rafting this river, as well as many others, visit:  https://www.recreation.gov/permits/234622 or https://www.blm.gov/visit/lower-salmon-river

The Outside Guide: Exploring the Wonders of Nevada: Great Basin Basics Workshop

Ladies and gentlemen, grab your curiosity and your sense of adventure because the Great Basin Basics Workshop is just around the corner! Picture this: it's Saturday, October 7, 2023, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, and you find yourself in the captivating Powerhouse Picnic Area in the heart of Lamoille Canyon, Nevada. If you're wondering what's in store for you, let me spill the beans!

The Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) has teamed up with local experts to whisk you away on a whirlwind tour of the best that Nevada has to offer. Are you ready to dive headfirst into a day of discovery, learning, and unforgettable experiences? Of course, you are!

Rock 'n Roll: Geology of the Great Basin

Ever wanted to know what's beneath your feet? First up on our adventure itinerary, we have local geologists unraveling the secrets of the earth's crust. Get ready for a rocky adventure and learn about the geology of the Great Basin and its surroundings. 

A Blast from the Past: Local History Unearthed

If you're a history buff, prepare to be transported back in time. The California Trail Center and Northeastern Nevada Museum will regale you with tales of pioneers, gold rushes, and the wild west. History class just got a whole lot more exciting!

Botanical Beauty: Local Plants and Trees

Next, we'll delve into the green wonders of this region with none other than NOS. Discover the secrets of the local flora, from towering pines to delicate wildflowers. Your inner botanist is in for a treat!

The Wild Side of Nevada: Wildlife Galore

Are you ready for an encounter with the diverse wildlife that calls the Great Basin home? With the Nevada Department of Wildlife as our guides, you'll learn about the fascinating critters that roam these parts. Who knows, you might even spot a bobcat doing the cha-cha with a pronghorn!

Feeding Your Mind and Body

All this exploring and learning can work up quite an appetite. So, don't forget to pack a lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning Nevada landscape. Did you know that the Great Basin is home to some of the most diverse landscapes and ecosystems? Well, you're about to find out more at this FREE workshop!

Bundle Up and Bring the Kids

Since we're taking this show on the road, please dress warmly. We're in the great outdoors, after all! And if you're bringing along your little explorers, they'll need to be accompanied by an adult throughout the workshop. Safety first, adventurers!

Don't Miss Out, Register Today!

Oh, and here's the best part: registration is absolutely free! But you must call the Elko NOS office at (775) 777-0814 to secure your spot on this educational escapade. Trust us; you won't want to miss this opportunity to bask in the beauty and knowledge of the Great Basin.

So, mark your calendars for October 7, 2023, and get ready to embark on a journey that'll leave you with a deeper appreciation for the incredible world right outside your door. Nevada's Great Basin awaits your curiosity, so let's make this a day to remember! And don’t forget, get outside, it’s great for everyone.

AmeriCorps Spotlight: Noah Doyle, Nevada Outdoor School Outdoor Educator

My name is Noah Doyle and I have been an AmeriCorps member serving with Nevada Outdoor School since May 2023. Before AmeriCorps, I was working full-time as a barista at a locally owned coffee shop here in Elko, Nevada. Almost all of my time in the workforce has been spent in either retail or food service, so I was very intrigued by the opportunity I found through AmeriCorps! I was initially introduced to the Nevada Outdoor School program through a friend of mine who works at the Elko office. I had previously heard little about AmeriCorps, their mission, and the opportunities that are offered through their programming and I was excited about learning more. Starting this job was one of the best things that happened to me this year. I was feeling stuck in my old position and like I didn’t have many suitable options available to me. I’ve always had a passion for creativity and teaching, so I was very eager to begin my service with Nevada Outdoor School. 

During my service, I was able to learn and discover new things that I’d never considered before. One of the first things I got to participate in was our Watershed Field Trips for the different schools in the Elko area. Honestly, I had no idea what a watershed was before helping with this programming! It was also my debut working with elementary grade students, which went a lot more smoothly that I originally anticipated! I’ve experience working with high school students, and the two groups are vastly different. Having to adjust my teaching tactics was a challenge, but one that I had welcomed with open arms. Luckily, I seemed to be pretty naturally good at working with younger students, which only exaggerated the excitement I had for working my term going forward. Everything about my position holds an air of importance and I’ve been able to discover new things about myself as well! I’m now more confident than ever that I’d like to pursue a career in education sometime in the future. As someone who isn’t used to taking initiative in most projects, I was able to practice leadership skills through my service with AmeriCorps as well. The work I’ve done during my term has helped build my confidence and uncover more things about my personality that were previously buried under several layers of self-doubt and uncertainty. 

My favorite part of being an AmeriCorps member is how meaningful the work I do is. One of my biggest struggles when it came to working retail, customer, or food service, was how menial and soul-sucking the jobs feel. I yearned to do more for my community, something that did more for the greater good than stocking shelves or bagging burgers and fries. I had felt so disconnected from my community and the people in it because I was seeing so little of it. I spent my days going through the same set of motions, talking to the same groups of people with little variation. Working with AmeriCorps means each day is different, and each project you work on is giving back to the community in so many different ways. I really enjoyed being able to employ my own ideas, use and refine my leadership and problem-solving skills. I love being able to meet new people out in the community and support events to encourage others to get involved with their community. The work that I do helps make my town and community a cleaner, better place for everyone living here or even just passing through!

Part of my job as an Outdoor Educator working with Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is scheduling and running summer camp programs in order to teach youth Leave No Trace and the importance of doing your part to take care of the environment. I’ve had the pleasure of being a supporting member at a few different camps as well as creating and leading one of my own. Leading and supporting camps take similar but different skill sets. Support definitely takes less effort, but is an absolute necessity to have while working summer camps. Being able to keep multiple sets of eyes on your campers, and have that extra cushion to help manage your groups is life-saving. Leading camps can be very challenging because you’re in charge of creating the schedule and coming up with games and activities to help fill time in the schedule. There’s also the prospect of buying enough servings of food for any overnight camping we do. It’s also the responsibility of the lead to take charge of any sort of behavioral management or disciplinary action that may need to be taken during camp. There are a lot of different pieces to the puzzle that we’re in charge of putting together in order to provide fun and educational programming for our participants.

Overall, my service with AmeriCorps has been incredibly fulfilling and I’m planning to continue with another term of service once I finish this first term. I’ve developed so many wonderful relationships with my coworkers, and I genuinely look forward to the work that I do and the positive impact that my position has on the environment and community. There are definitely some frustrations that come and go while performing my duties, but I see each one as an opportunity to learn and grow and acquire new skills in order to help myself and others in the future. There are so many benefits that I’ve come into while serving this term for AmeriCorps and I can’t wait to pursue the future endeavors that AmeriCorps has given me the confidence to go after!

Noah Doyle (2nd from left) poses for a group picture with NOS Summer Members

Noah Doyle (Front) takes a selfie with his campers and Supports on Lamoille’s Hanging Valley Walking path

2023 Winnemucca Fire & Ice Golf Tournament Fundraiser

A great big THANK YOU! to all of the sponsors and participants in Nevada Outdoor School’s 1st Annual Winnemucca Fire and Ice Golf Scramble Fundraiser last Saturday, September 9th at the Winnemucca Golf Course. The day was full of beautiful weather, great golf shots, and lucky winners!

The theme for the event is “Fire and Ice” and we raffled off 4 firearms and 4 Cordova 48 Qt Coolers. The firearm winners were: Russ Mullins who won a Savage 17HMR rifle sponsored by NOS; Tim Roybal who won a Tristar Raptor Semi Auto 12 gauge shotgun sponsored by Stewart Title; Lee Bosch who won a Tristar Setter 28 gauge shotgun and Adua Boyle who won a Savage .22 WMR both guns sponsored by NOS.

The Cordova cooler winners were: Brandon Tangreen sponsored by Drake Rose & Associate; Cole Erquiaga sponsored by Carwil, Joey Dendary sponsored by Edward Jones – Walt Vetter and Chrissy Ingle Hunt sponsored by Stewart Title.

We also had a 3-night, 6 hunt Dove Hunting trip to Cordoba, Argentina for 4 people donated by Norte Hunters that was up for silent auction, and lucky winner Brandon Tangreen was the winning bid.

Twelve - 4 person scramble teams came out to support Nevada Outdoor School. Tied for 1st place with a score of 61 were the teams of Max Mavity, Rian DeLong, Goose Thurston and Maddux Nichols and Carl Rose, Scott Ashby, Craig Drake and Rodney Dimock. They all won $70 each to spend at the Winnemucca Golf Club House. Tied for 2nd place with a score of 66 were the teams of Louis Roman, Mitch Weber, Savannah Roman, and Emily Roman, and Stewart Title’s team of Tim Roybal, Mike Adams, Jared Wiss, and Steve Hunt. They each won $20 each in Golf Course Cash. We also presented prizes to the “most in need of improvement” to the Carwil team of Kandy Havens, Kona Jensen, Adam Dossey and Tyler Sabayan. They were gifted $200 in gift certificates to The Martin.

We added some fun to the tournament play with an on-course game for yardage advantages on hole #6 where participants were challenged with some NOS outdoor ethics education questions to spark conversation about safe and responsible outdoor recreation and exploration.

The winner of the ladies’ closest to the hole contest on #5 was Holly Gallian and she was awarded with a trip to Las Vegas to play golf at Painted Desert Golf Club with 3 guests and an overnight stay for two rooms at Santa Fe Station. The winner of the mens’ closest to the hole contest also on #5 was Scott DeLong and he was awarded with a trip to Sparks to stay overnight and play golf with a guest at Red Hawk Golf and Resort.

Additionally, there was a Straightest Drive competition on hole #8. Winner, Carl Rose hit the straightest drive with a shot right on the center line and won $300 in gift cards from The Peppermill Resort and Spa in Reno.

Thank you to our donors – Elko Broadcasting, Stewart Title, Drake Rose & Associates, Gamma Electric, Peppermill Resort and Spa, Norte Hunters, Painted Desert Golf Club, Santa Fe Station, The Martin Hotel, Red Hawk Golf and Resort, Winnemucca Golf Course, Carwil, Edward Jones – Walt Vetter and Les Schwab.

Lastly, thank you to Rack City and C.B. Browns for the discount on the firearms and thank you to Joey Dendary and his team at the Winnemucca Golf Course for so much help to NOS in hosting this annual fundraiser event. Our hope is that it will get bigger and better every year!

In gratitude,

Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director

The Outside Guide: Embracing the Autumn Symphony: Fall in Central and Northern Nevada's Great Basin with a Celestial Bonus

As summer gracefully hands over the reins to autumn, central and northern Nevada's Great Basin undergoes a breathtaking transformation. This unique region, known for its rugged beauty, experiences an enchanting display of seasonal change. And this year, nature is offering an extraordinary celestial bonus—a "Ring of Fire" total solar eclipse. In the midst of this transition, the California Trail Interpretive Center in Elko, NV, is hosting a celestial watch party for this rare event, adding a touch of magic to an already mesmerizing season.

The Great Basin, sprawling across parts of Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Idaho, and California, is characterized by its high deserts, rugged mountain ranges, and distinct topography. This vast region is about to embrace autumn with open arms, turning its typically arid landscape into a mesmerizing tapestry of colors.

One of the most noticeable changes as autumn approaches in the Great Basin is the gradual cooling of temperatures. The relentless summer heat, with its triple-digit highs, slowly gives way to cooler, crisper air—a refreshing invitation for outdoor exploration.

The elevation in central and northern Nevada plays a pivotal role in this temperature shift. As you ascend in elevation, the temperature drop becomes more pronounced. Lower elevations see daytime highs in the 70s and 80s (°F), while the higher reaches experience daytime temperatures in the 60s and even 50s (°F). These cooler temperatures provide an ideal environment for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and stargazing.

As the temperatures dip, the Great Basin transforms into a stunning canvas. The once-dominant sagebrush-covered landscape is replaced by vibrant hues of fall foliage. Among the star performers in this autumnal spectacle are the aspen trees, their leaves turning a brilliant shade of gold, gleaming like nuggets of sunlight against the azure sky.

The quaking aspen, recognized by its white bark and heart-shaped leaves, becomes emblematic of fall in the Great Basin. These trees form extensive groves that seem to come alive as their leaves flutter in the breeze, creating a captivating visual display. Prime locations to witness this breathtaking phenomenon include Lamoille Canyon in the Ruby Mountains and the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area.

In addition to the aspens, other deciduous trees, like cottonwoods and willows, contribute their own shades to the autumn landscape. Their vibrant yellows and oranges blend harmoniously with the golden aspen leaves, weaving a rich tapestry of colors that is nothing short of enchanting.

Autumn in the Great Basin ushers in a flurry of wildlife activity. As temperatures drop and daylight hours wane, many animals gear up for winter by stocking up on food. This is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers to observe the region's diverse fauna.

Mule deer, icons of the Great Basin, engage in the rutting season during the fall. Here, bucks vie for the attention of females, their haunting calls echoing through the valleys, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for observers.

Birdwatchers, too, are in for a treat during the fall migration season. The Great Basin serves as a crucial stopover for numerous migratory birds traveling along the Pacific Flyway. From sandhill cranes to tundra swans, these avian visitors grace the region with their presence as they head south for the winter.

Autumn is a time of celebration in the Great Basin, with communities coming together to embrace the changing season. Amid the traditional festivities, a celestial marvel is set to occur this year—the "Ring of Fire" total solar eclipse.

On October 14, between 9:20 AM and 9:25 AM, a celestial spectacle will unfold in the skies above. During this brief window, the moon will obscure the majority of the sun, leaving only a mesmerizing outer ring of fire—a sight to behold. The partial eclipse will commence around 8 AM and conclude at approximately 10:45 AM.

To make the most of this rare event, the California Trail Interpretive Center in Elko, NV, is hosting a celestial watch party. It's a unique opportunity to witness this cosmic dance while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Great Basin. For more information on the eclipse and the event, you can visit the NASA website at https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/eclipses/2023/oct-14-annular/where-when/.

Beyond the eclipse, the Great Basin is renowned for its dark skies, making it an ideal destination for stargazers and astronomers. As fall progresses, the longer nights offer ample opportunities to witness celestial wonders.

The Great Basin's remote location and minimal light pollution create the perfect conditions for stargazing. Whether you're an amateur astronomer with a telescope or simply a lover of the night sky, you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of the Milky Way, planets, and constellations.

Some of the best places for stargazing in the Great Basin include Great Basin National Park, where the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive offers unparalleled views, and the Ruby Mountains, where you can camp under the stars and enjoy the serenity of the night.

Fall in central and northern Nevada's Great Basin is a time of remarkable change and beauty. The transition in temperature, the vibrant display of fall foliage, the bustling wildlife, and the celestial spectacle of the "Ring of Fire" total solar eclipse all come together to create an enchanting and invigorating season. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to witness the breathtaking transition from summer to fall in the heart of the Great Basin, culminating in the celestial watch party event at the California Trail Interpretive Center—an experience you won't soon forget.  And as always, Get Outside! It’s great for everyone.   https://www.nevadaoutdoorschool.org