Photo: Wayne Johnston

Almost 100 Friends and visitors shared new experiences and learning at the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument during the Friend’s 2014 Summer Seminar season. Ten seminars, led by popular local instructors and professors from around the nation were conducted with record breaking attendance.

Photo: Robyn Proper

Proving once again that “the early bird gets the worm,” several of the seminars were sold out well in advance of the actual seminar date. Students hiked into an archeological dig site to gain first-hand knowledge of our Native American past in South Park, while others walked portions of the Hayman Burn Scar to learn about the tree and plant survival and rejuvenation after the burn.

photo: Robyn Proper

Making nature drawings and journaling were extremely popular, as was star and planet gazing. A “sold out” crowd enjoyed touring the Guffey volcanic caldron and studying our local land formations. Another “sold out” seminar gathered to learn about and visit flammulated owls in their natural habitat. Capping the seminar season, the School in the Woods hosted our seminar where participants learned the School’s unique methods of incorporating science and nature into their daily activities.

Photo: Robyn Proper

The Friend’s Board of Directors would like to thank the many individuals who made this Seminar Season so successful. From the Friend’s Seminar Committee (led by Sally McCracken) to the many presenters and especially the media who helped publicize the events. Our 2015 Committee is already formed and planning an even more exciting slate for 2015. Watch our website (www.fossilbeds.org) for announcements as plans firm up. And remember to sign up early!!