Participants will identify local mammal and avian tracks and signs.
Participants will demonstrate understanding of the following components of a 'track':
Participants will use multiple aging techniques to study the decay rate of tracks.
Participants will construct the context of tracks through observation, deduction, questioning, and games.
Participants will master track journaling, notation, and graphing.
This course will be a true intensive; it will be packed with back-to-back lectures, experiments, and real world tracking. We will meet at different locations each time, starting at Making Tracks HQ. We will study tracks on ourselves, our classmates, and wildlife. There will be mandatory homework in between sessions and it is your responsibility not to fall behind.
At just 7 years old, Erik began training at the Riekes Center Nature Awareness Department. His curiosity was insatiable and he continued to pursue outdoor education, acquiring a Bachelor's degree in Parks, Recreation and Tourism, with an emphasis in Adventure and Outdoor Programs. Since middle school, Erik has channeled his love of nature into teaching, first assisting lead instructors until he was of age to facilitate nature exploration classes for 20+ kids.
You must bring a notebook, pen/pencil, food, water, appropriate clothing, and footwear.
Consider compiling a tracking kit with the following items (this is recommended):
Erik has such passion for giving back to others to create more possibilities for youth to grow up Nature-Connected. I highly recommend getting involved with his programs and giving yourself and your children a healthy foundation in a balanced relationship with the Earth.
- Rick Berry, 4 Elements Earth Education
Erik’s dedication to and passion for teaching are so strong. His programs are a benefit to all who attend. The quality of his work and commitment to people and their connection to the earth and skills is such a high priority.
- Karen Sherwood, Earthwalk Northwest
My girls and I started doing weekly classes with Erik two years ago, and it has been a favorite time together that we look forward to each week. Whether it is cold and rainy or sunny and warm, my girls can’t wait to go every week, and we benefit from getting out in nature and fresh air. We have gained a better understanding and respect for nature which couldn’t be more needed in today's world. We are so grateful for Making Tracks!
- Jamie Walsh, Client
Making Tracks Earth Education is just what I was looking for to help me and my children learn deeply how to love and connect with nature through games and hands-on experiences. Erik teaches in such a unique and profound way that my family has gained more connection to each other, to ourselves, and to nature through taking his classes. He really makes students think and own their own learning process. We absolutely love this style of learning and everything about Making Tracks.
- Rachel von Niederhausern, Client