“The Mountains are calling…” Whether you are an adventurer, explorer, or just curious about the outdoors this class is for you. This course is designed to provide a hands-on learning experience of navigating nature's playground. In this course you will set your inner Yeti free and learn the skills to be more prepared and a bit more confident being in the wilderness. Sasquatch skills such as shelter, water, fire, food, navigation skills, hazards and first aid are the base topics we will cover in this semester course.
It all started when I was a teen growing up in Farmington, NM, I was part of the Civil Air Patro (CAP) I learned a lot about wilderness Survival through trainings offered through the CAP including Desert Survival, and was honored to be selected and participate in the Pararescue Orientation Course (PJOC) and Advance Pararescue Orientation Course (APJOC). Living on the Westernslope of Colorado these skills are just vital. My goal is to give students these basic skills to confidently go into the wilderness.
Future Goals
In our wilderness survival class, our overarching future goal is to equip students with comprehensive skills and knowledge that will not only ensure their survival in the wild but also empower them to assist others in times of emergency. We aim to incorporate a structured curriculum that not only covers basic survival techniques but also delves into the realm of wilderness first aid. Our vision includes offering students the opportunity to earn a Wilderness First Aid certification, providing them with essential medical training tailored to remote environments. Furthermore, we aspire to present an advanced opportunity for those seeking to further their expertise by offering a Wilderness First Responder certification, which would equip them with advanced medical skills necessary for handling critical situations in the wilderness. By integrating these certifications into our curriculum, we aim to cultivate a community of capable and confident wilderness enthusiasts who are not only prepared for their own adventures but also capable of aiding others in times of need.
The Outdoor Industry and Recreation career pathway offers opportunities for individuals passionate about the outdoors and community impact. From natural resource management to park and recreation programming, professionals in this field focus on preserving natural resources, maintaining parks and trails, and providing outdoor education. They also contribute to local and regional planning to enhance the area's livability and recreational offerings. ~MCSD
Wilderness Survival Science is essential for our young outdoor enthusiasts and future outdoor entrepreneurs.
I would love to extend a huge thank you for the all of those that have made this course possible:
Dr. Carrie Stephenson Superintendent
Jessica Beller, Executive Director of Academic Services
Heidi Voehringer, Montrose High School Principal
John Steele, Coordinator - STEM Coordinator
Linda Weyers, Title/Federal Programs Coordinator
Matt Jenkins, Public Information Officer
Community Support
Jeffery Lawn, School Of Survival Wilderness First Responder Instructor and Survival School
Randy and Kay Gerke, The Outdoor Survival Guide Book
Randy Gerke's book The Outdoor Survival Guide is written by a former captain and a member of the Ouray Mountain Rescue Team in Ouray, Colorado. We are so excited to have a location specific guide. reference text for the the Wilderness Survival Course.
Corporate Sponsors
Grayl - https://grayl.com/
Hill People Gear - https://www.hillpeoplegear.com/
KINDLERFIRE® - https://www.kindlerfire.com/
LMNT - Electrolyte Replacement
REI - Grand Junction Store Employees