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Montana Wildflowers 1
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 Rocky Mountain Iris © Jim Steinberg |
Date:
May 31 - June 6, 2008
Time:
Full day activities
Overview:
This workshop is designed for anyone interested in wildflowers or plants. Timed to coincide with the annual peak of wildflower diversity, set against spectacular mountain backdrops, this workshop will knock your socks off. Daily field trips will expose participants to an amazing diversity of habitats and plant life. By van and on foot we will explore awe-inspiring wildlands; in the evenings, audio-visual presentations will add to a fulfilling week.
We will visit Pine Butte Swamp Preserve, the Conservancy's sprawling 18,000-acre sanctuary that lies at the foot of the Rockies. Day hikes will take us into the forested Rocky Mountains, the Teton River bottomlands, and into Montana's vast prairies. If conditions are right, participants may also be treated to some of the rare orchids of Montana, which occur only in scattered, dispersed areas. In order to maintain a high quality experience for all, enrollment will be limited to 16 people.
In addition to flower identification, we will explore plant ecology, insect pollination, uses of native plants by wildlife, wildflower photography and ethnobotany.
This is the peak time of year not only for wildflowers but also for birds and wildlife in general. During June, the prairies and foothills are vivid green, covered in a profusion of wild bloom. To the west, the Rocky Mountains rise high into Montana's acclaimed Big Sky, forming a landscape that is simply breathtaking.
Instructors
This workshop will be led by Eric Bergman, Pine Butte’s resident naturalist. He brings broad understanding and experiences in botany, ecology and environmental education, in addition to an intimacy with this landscape. Through Nature Conservancy programs, Eric has been teaching about the ecology of the Rocky Mountain Front for five years, and has been exploring Montana’s wild places his entire life.
Cost:
Cost for this workshop is $1700 per person, which includes airport shuttle service to/from Great Falls, food, and lodging at Pine Butte Guest Ranch. We require a non-refundable deposit of $500 per person in order to hold your reservation(s). A portion of your fee ($400) is considered tax-deductible.
Enrollment is limited to 16 participants.
Accommodations:
You’ll stay at the Conservancy's historic Pine Butte Guest Ranch, located in a scenic, peaceful mountain valley surrounded by thousands of acres of wilderness. It’s the perfect place to "get away from it all" and enjoy outstanding food and cozy lodging. Cabins feature private baths, wood-burning fireplaces and electric heat.
Learn more:
• Travel to the ranch
• Reservation form
• What to bring
We look forward to hosting you at Pine Butte Guest Ranch!
