Wilderness Skills Institute

Wilderness Skills Institute

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), The Wilderness Society (TWS), the Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards (SAWS), the USDA Forest Service and the National Park Service have established the “Wilderness Skills Institute”, a two-week training course to be held on May 21 to June 1, 2012 at the Cradle of Forestry near Brevard, NC. The Institute is designed to provide information about the history of designated Wilderness, the skills necessary to work effectively in wilderness and the certifications required to implement those skills.

From May 21 - 25, participants will learn Wilderness First Aid, CPR and have the opportunity to receive their Cross-Cut saw certification. Attendees will also discuss Wilderness theory and legislation with some of the region’s most experienced stewards.

From May 29 – June 1, training will be offered for people new to trail work so that they can gain an understanding of the basics in the field. Skilled trail workers will also be able to tackle technical construction problems with experienced trail crew leaders.

Registration includes camping near the Cradle of Forestry.

Andrew Downs, Appalachian Trail Conservancy; (828) 254-3708; adowns@appalachiantrail.org;  www.appalachiantrail.org

Bill Hodge, Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards; (865) 617-4804; billhodge@trailcrews.org; www.trailcrews.org