INCONSPICUOUS YELLOWSTONE: A NATURAL HISTORY OF THE SMALL

DATES: JULY 4 – 6, 2025

TUITION & LODGING: $690

LOCATION: LAMAR BUFFALO RANCH

GROUP SIZE: 13

ACTIVITY LEVEL: 2

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PROGRAM INFORMATION

The wildness of Yellowstone is not only in its wolves and geysers – there are countless worlds of struggle and beauty, hidden in plain sight. In this course, participants will explore some of the most fascinating ecological stories and processes that are so often overlooked. Through classroom instruction and exploration in the field, participants will learn about a wide range of topics in natural history and ecology, and see how careful attention can bring new depth to your experience of the natural world.

DAY 1

WELCOME & ORIENTATION

The program starts with an evening orientation. Participants will get to know one another and be introduced to the program. Throughout the evening, the itinerary and seminar key concepts will be discussed, as well as what to expect to pack for the field each day.

DAY 2

Class will spend each morning in the field, returning to the Ranch for a lunch lecture, then leave again to spend the rest of the day in the field. Participants will explore the biology and ecology of plants, fungi, and animals through observation and instruction, and through individual and group exercises.

Class will return to the Ranch by 5pm.

DAY 3

Class will spend each morning in the field, returning to the Ranch for a lunch lecture, then leave again to spend the rest of the day in the field. Participants will explore the biology and ecology of plants, fungi, and animals through observation and instruction, and through individual and group exercises.

Class will end at 5pm.

DAY 4

CHECK OUT & DEPARTURE

Dates & Times: The program begins at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 4, 2025, and goes through Sunday, July 6, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.

Lodging Check-in & Check-out: Lodging check-in begins at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 4, 2025, and lodging check-out is at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025.

Meals: This course is not catered. Participants will need to bring their own food; lunch should be able to travel in the field.

ACTIVITY LEVEL 2

  • Be prepared to hike up to 3 miles per day, comfortably, with elevation gains up to 600 feet. Some off-trail hiking possible.
  • For more information about our activity levels, please visit our Activity Level webpage here.
  • Most activities will take place at elevations between 7,200 to 8,000 feet. Participants residing at lower elevations may want to arrive a day early to adjust to the altitude.
  • To learn more about how specific medical conditions can be affected by Yellowstone’s environment and our activities, please visit our site page on health information.
  • All field activities will be conducted as a group. If members of the group cannot participate in the day’s activities, they need to let the educator know in advance.
  • To participate in this program, each participant must fill out and sign a health questionnaire and assumption of risk waiver. These forms must be completed and returned at least 30 days prior to the program start date.

EQUIPMENT SPECIFIC TO THIS COURSE:

Suggested Packing List located in General Information document under the ‘Whom to Contact’ tab.

  • Personal notebook or journal to take notes

Whom to Contact: For any questions, concerns, or additional information please contact the following:

Program itinerary, health forms, payment, and general program questions please contact Yellowstone Forever at [email protected] or 406-848-2400 extension 3

Road updates, park conditions, and general park information please contact Yellowstone National Park Service at https://www.nps.gov/yell/contacts.htm

If running late for a program, please contact 406-641-2185.

General Information: For general information about the facilities, preparation for classes, what to expect, cancellation policies, and more, please see the Lamar-Based Field Seminars – General Information document.

Cancellation Policy: Review our Cancellation & Refund Policies here.

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cedar-mathers-winn-yellowstone-field-seminar-instructor (1)

Cedar Mathers-Winn, M.S.

Cedar Mathers-Winn is a naturalist, biologist, and educator based in Bozeman, MT. He earned his Master’s degree studying animal communication in southwestern Montana, and has studied ecology and animal behavior in mountain forests, tropical Australia, and the Sonoran Desert. As an instructor, Cedar emphasizes the wonder and wildness of things that are everywhere but easily ignored.