BASIC WILDERNESS SURVIVAL WEEKEND — April 28 - 30, 2023
BASIC WILDERNESS SURVIVAL WEEKEND — April 28 - 30, 2023
(IN PERSON)
FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 2023, 6:00PM THROUGH
SUNDAY, APRIL 30, 2023, 3:00PM
ALTHOUGH THIS IS DESIGNED AS AN OVERNIGHT, IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO SPEND THE NIGHT ON-SITE.
INSTRUCTOR:
BRENTON SPRATLEN
LOCATION:
BEAUTIFUL LAND A FEW MILES BEYOND TREESONG ON THE WASHOUGAL RIVER ROAD
In this experience, you will learn the basics of wilderness survival while learning some useful bushcraft techniques. This workshop will act as a stepping stone into the great outdoors, as we learn what it takes to become proficient and comfortable when going out in natural spaces. In this class we will practice skills with an awareness of our impact on the land, while our overall focus will be Basic Shelter (modern and natural techniques), Basic Fire (modern and friction-fire methods), water filtration and purification, and a little about food. We will also discuss various other topics such as safety, awareness, preparation, gear selection, and philosophies related to outdoor survival. In addition, we’ll practice safely using a knife and other basic tools.
There will be a mix of lecture and physical activities throughout the entirety of the weekend, while learning after dark with perhaps an optional early morning activity/challenge.
What to bring:
*Gear List Updated on 4-26-2023 for location specific needs.
-If you're camping overnight, a “Sleep System” can include one or more according to your preference(Sleeping Bag, Ground pad, 1-2 person Tent, Blanket, Tarp). There will be a couple extra sleeping bags, wool blankets and ground pads for use for any participants that need additional padding/insulation.
*A sleeping mat is an important addition. Blankets can work well.
-Bring your own seat unless you are okay with sitting in the grass, dirt or on potentially wet stumps. Old yoga mats, or sleeping pads can be cut to size. Wool Blankets. Cutting boards can even be used. Insulation from the ground can make a big difference in comfort while in an outdoor classroom environment.
-Rain Layer(jacket and pants(wet stumps!) if available)(weather permitting)
-Proper footwear(tennis shoes are fine in ideal conditions but each participant should have decent water resistant hiking shoes/boots. We don't anticipate a lot of travel so rain boots may suffice if comfortable while standing in them for long periods or short walks.
-Change of clothes and extra in case of emergency. Best to have multiple thin layers than 1 thin and 1 heavy layer. There will be physical activities which may require shedding some layers. Bring whatever you need to feel comfortable. There may be a need for a jacket and warm gloves for the cold mornings. Space for gear is not an issue.
-Bring your own food. It is best if food is quickly prepared by fire or eaten as-is, or freeze-dried meals that you can just add hot water to may be easiest, but somewhat expensive if bought from stores. There will be a small amount of time allotted for food prep with 30 min meal breaks but you can finish your meal during class times. Refrigeration is not available. A cooler with ice will be available. *Plenty of snacks are highly recommended.
-Bring a mess kit - Plate or bowl, spoon, and cup are basics. Bring whatever you need to use for your meals.
-Personal hygiene needs. Please keep in mind other people's sensitivities with overly fragrant/synthetic products. Fragrances can also attract biters.
-Prescription eyewear if needed.
-Any personal medications needed for the duration of the class.
-Water bottle.
-Headlamp or flashlight, for nighttime safety.
-Cell phone charger or battery back-up. Service is limited on the property.
-Facemasks when/if needed.
-Earplugs for sleeping.
Optional:
-Hat or head covering optional, but useful.
-Favorite knife if available, preferably non-serrated, and at least 4 inches long. Knives will be available as loaners for projects.
-Favorite fire starter!
-Any additional cold weather gear needed(gloves, seat cushion, etc.)
-Sunglasses if needed.
-Work gloves(preferably leather) to protect your hands.
-Notepad and pencil if taking notes, recommended for keeping track of all the information provided for future reference.
-Bug Spray
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A list of any potential relevant allergies from each applicant would be appreciated by the instructor. These can include food allergies, latex, insect stings, sun, known plant allergy(pollen, grass, nightshades), etc. If not required in application, I may inquire during program as needed.
Emergency contact info should also be required, if not already.
Age restricted to 18 years and over.
Please no alcohol/drug use during the program or on site.
TUITION: $250 - $350 SLIDING SCALE (plus processing fees)
SUPPORT NATURE CONNECTION: Please consider making an additional donation to help TreeSong, a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Anything helps and we thank you in advance!
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has." — Margaret Mead
PROCESSING FEES ARE ONLY APPLIED TO TUITION AMOUNTS, NEVER DONATIONS.
About the instructor:
Spending his early years in the dry riverbeds east of Paso Robles, CA, Brenton evoked his natural passion for the outdoors at 5 years old, while tracking and hunting Jack rabbits on horseback. At age 7, his family moved to the mountains of Colorado where he spent every available moment of his next 10 years exploring the 40 acres of land he lived on. The countless forts and fires he built, mixed with trails and his own wild imagination, accounted for his deep desire to become proficient in the arts of wilderness survival, primitive living and bushcraft. Brenton has spent many of his adult years following this path, and being self-taught in these types of primitive arts has led to a great amount of self awareness and loads of information to share with all who will listen.
Brenton recently spent 4 years mentoring children and adults at Trackers Earth in Portland. From his time with Forest School Kindergarten, Homeschool and Apprenticeship programs, to his Adult Immersion programs and Director-level experiences, he has had the pleasure of learning from many other students, parents and educators and hopes to continue sharing what he has learned so that others can benefit.
Brenton believes nothing is greater than the connection we have with nature and strives to teach this and other primitive skills to all. The self-discipline, drive and attention to detail he obtained from his days in the US Navy's Presidential Guard, including the experiences from traveling abroad and learning different cultures, reflect in his teachings.