Attn:

I have now been on the ranch for a bit more than 36 hours but in some ways it seems like an eternity.

Once arriving in Raton and eating lunch at the infamous St. James hotel in Cimarron, my entourage that had accompanied me dropped me off. I was sent on an busying scavenger hunt throughout base to get my uniform, picture taken, med recheck, and tent assignment among other things. I had thought that all of staff would be arriving that day but I was mistaken. The staff arrivals are scheduled all throughout the next few weeks so it really wasn't that busy. Once I got my things done there was really nothing structured for me to do. It was eerie.

But the lull didn't last long. This morning we were up early for breakfast followed by a full and I mean FULL day of training. I think that's how the next few weeks are going to be, chock full of information. We talked about everything from packing our packs to educational techniques and Leave No Trace principals. It was quite overwhelming. We got to spend the whole day with the other Environmental Educators so it was great to get a sense of who I'll be working with all summer.

Tomorrow we head out on our first training hike. It's a nice starter, only 2 days, 2 nights. We will be partner teaching our first lessons and practicing our Leave No Trace techniques. Everything is happening very quickly.

Let me end with a quick plea to any 16 to not yet 21 year old girl who doesn't have anything planned from June 30 to July 21 this summer. PLEASE consider coming to Philmont and participating in the ROCS trek. This is a 21 day experience that I'm co-leading with another super awesome and experienced Philmont employee.  You will learn basic backpacking skills as well as get to experience exciting lessons ranging from dendrology to fire ecology to range management. There are still spots as well as scholarships available! Please spread the word and email me at rebecca.wiebke@gmail.com if you or anyone you know is interested!
http://www.philmontscoutranch.org/rocs.aspx