Things to bring and expect at VISP

What to expect and bring as part of VISP

Where will be staying:

We will be staying in Sun River, Oregon.  Four moderate sized homes were rented as part of this years VISP and our group of 15-20 people will be split up into these homes.  Most participants (including instructors!) will need to share rooms while other members may need to have their own separate rooms.  The homes are equipped with kitchens, 1-2 restrooms, 2-4 bedrooms, large porches with BBQs, garages, WiFi, and other creature comforts.  

Personal Health and Safety

Read the Wasatch-Uinuta Field Camp page for relevant information related to what we may expect while working, traveling, and participating in the outdoor activities for VISP: https://www.fieldcamp.org/health-safety 

Suggest Gear to Bring for VISP

Below are some suggested gear and supplies to bring with you to VISP.  Most days will generally be easy going and close to the vans and only short hikes.  However, the weather and other conditions can change rapidly and it is always good to be more prepared than under.  If you find that you may need some assistance with some of the items below or have questions, please reach out to Shaun Marcott (smarcott@wisc.edu).  

• Alarm clock, wristwatch, phone - You will need to wake up before breakfast and know when to return to vans at the end of a field day. When it is time to go - we go!! Wristwatches may seem antiquated, but they are effective and you won't have to dig into your pocket for a phone every time you want to see what time it is.

• Binoculars - If you have them. These are really just for fun.

• Boots or sturdy shoes - Good boots or solidly built shoes that cover the top of ankle or higher are encourage. You will find good ankle support a blessing in some situations. Walking shoes, running shoes, cross-trainers, and hiking sandals are permissible for some days but you need to have solid footwear for several locations. Reach out if you have any questions.

• Camera, phone

• Canteen/Water Bottles - A combination of water bottles or hydration reservoirs that can hold 1-4 liters of water is strongly recommended. You will be operating in hot, dry, high-altitude areas...conditions that your body is unfamiliar with. Dehydration is incredibly effective at undermining your comfort, effectiveness, and safety in the field. Wide mouth bottles are easiest when it comes to adding the ice cubes.

• Chap Stick - Lips tend to dry out and crack in low-humidity - bring several.

• Map board / clipboard - Some form of map board is nice to have (but not critical) as it provides a writing surface while in the field. 

• Field and Comfort Clothing - A week's supply. Be sure to include long-sleeve shirts made out of lightweight material for protection from the sun. Remember, weather changes rapidly in the mountains. So include light weight field clothing you can stow in your pack and layer up as needed.

• First Aid Kit and Supplies - Bring a small personalized kit with the items (Band-Aids, alcohol wipes, moleskin, Advil, etc.) that you know you will most likely need to address the issues you commonly encounter. Faculty and vans will carry more extensive kits for uncommon and more serious needs.

• Hat - A wide-brimmed hat is recommended. Burnt ears are a common complaint. Straw is good and the more air holes the better.

• Hiking Poles - Especially if you are a little unstable (on your feet) or not a fan of steep slopes, one or a pair of telescoping hiking poles may make your everyday experience more comfortable.

• Insect Repellent - Mosquitos and biting flies are common in Oregon and may be out when we go.  You may thank us later.

• Jacket and Sweater - The temperatures in the high desert can fluctuate from 30 to 100 F on a single days, so bring clothes accordingly. Average working temperature at high elevations may be about 55 with a strong wind. A sweater should be light, warm, and non-absorbent to water (e.g. wool or polyester pile are ideal). A light windbreaker or waterproof jacket is a must on cloudy and windy days especially at high elevation.

• Laptop or pad computer (there is no space for desktop computers) - Not required but we should have internet access at the houses.

• Pencils and Pens 

• Pocket Knife - comes in handy sometimes but not necessary.

• Rain Coat or Poncho - Waterproof jackets (rain shells or similar foul weather gear... NOT ski jackets) work well, but if you do not have these a cheap transparent poncho will protect you while writing in field books and on maps.

• Small Back Pack - To carry gear, lunch, and supplies. 

• Socks - Take care of your feet! Consider bringing medium weight wool or synthetic socks if you have them. Bring enough so that you will have dry socks each morning. Blisters and sore feet really are a pain!

• Snacks - There are local grocery stores, but if you have favorite shelf-stable snacks, buy a supply ahead of time and bring them with you if you have room.

• Sunglasses - Preferably polarized, they will protect your eyes from sunburn and help prevent headaches brought on by squinting in bright light. They also will intercept flying rock chips.

• Sunscreen - Sun exposure at high altitudes contributes to an increased risk of skin cancer. Use sun block and keep skin covered each day. Sun burns turn into blisters... which heal slowly when being rubbed by backpack straps and shirt collars every day. Several bottles of oil-free sunblock with an SPF above 35 is strongly recommended.

• Swim Suits - There are hot tubs at each of the houses and a pool that we may have access to in Sun River.

• Towels, hand towels, washcloths, bathmat - these items are provided by the management in Sun River but the supplies might be limited. Consider bringing your own bath towel, hand towel, and washcloth.

• Tupperware container - A completely optional but entirely awesome strategy for maintaining the integrity of field lunches.