The lack of proper preparation for winter field work in wildlife research can pose a dangerous risk to technicians and animals, potentially cause damage to equipment and habitat, and may affect the quality of data collection. Direct winter technician experience can be difficult to obtain and time consuming for employers to train, but is critical for effectively meeting research goals and creating a competitive marketplace for technicians. This course aims to cover all aspects of basic winter field skills to prepare technicians for the rigors of the season.

Course participants will gain hands on experience with skills and knowledge specific to winter field work including:

• First Aid/CPR

• 10 essentials and how to pack for cold weather conditions

• Orienteering and basic survival

• Avalanche awareness

• Defensive, winter, and 4WD driving

• Attaching, backing, and loading a trailer

• Snowmobile operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting

This is a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum that takes place over the course of 5 full days. Participants should be prepared to spend extended days outside in varying weather conditions, as well as lengthy indoor classroom sessions.

Limited tuition and travel scholarships may be available to participants that qualify. Please contact us to learn more.