While in Laramie or working out of Laramie , students are responsible for all their meals (including lunch) and lodging, but we will assist out-of-town students in locating suitable lodging in the Laramie area. Approximately 14 nights will be spent in Laramie; the rest of field camp will be spent in the field. While in the field, all lodging, food, and transportation will be provided. On road trips we normally camp in primitive or developed campgrounds, but we occasionally take advantage of showers and laundry facilities. While in the field, breakfast and dinner will be prepared by our camp cook; students will pack a lunch each morning from supplies stocked by the camp.
Transportation to and from the field is provided. Recreational and personal use of University vehicles is not permitted. Major items such as Brunton compasses, GPS units, Jacob's staffs, and class materials (maps, photos, etc.) are supplied. Shared tents are available for borrowing. The students are asked to supply drafting equipment and personal gear.
Estimated costs for non-UW students while in Laramie: lodging will be approximately $10-20 night in shared hotel rooms. Local students might also offer to host non-UW students in return for a small compensation. Food costs will be similar to those at home.
Required!
Appropriate clothing that will allow you to be comfortable in snow (yes, really), rain and sunshine. The "layered" approach works well. Rain gear will be necessary. Laundry will be available approximately every 7-9 days.
Good field boots are essential; sandals are not allowed for field work. The boots must withstand several weeks of rough treatment and should be "broken in" so that you won't develop blisters. Your boots should protect against stone bruises, twisted ankles, and cactus spines. High-top boots are preferred and will help prevent rattlesnake bites.
A substantial belt (for carrying your Brunton and other gear)
At least two water bottles and a daypack for field gear. The daypack must be large enough to carry your lunch, raingear, and mapping equipment; a camelback will not be sufficient.
Sleeping pad and a sleeping bag that is comfortable below freezing. If your bag is rated to only 20 degrees, you should bring a liner or extra blanket because we often experience snow or frost conditions. We do not "pack-in" for our projects, so being comfortable is more important than portability. The UW Outdoor program rents sleeping bags and sleeping pads and will give a 20% discount for a 6 week rental: http://www.uwyo.edu/REC/OUTDOOR-PROGRAM/rental-center.html
Tent--low profile tents that withstand wind are recommended. The UW Outdoor program rents tents and will give a 20% discount for a 6 week rental: http://www.uwyo.edu/REC/OUTDOOR-PROGRAM/rental-center.html
Personal hygiene items (including soap, washcloth, towel, shampoo, etc.).
*Note: Space in the vehicles is generous, but limited, so please pack economically (don't expect to take a bike or kayak unless you are in training for a competitive event, and then please ask first).
