From fungi to birch bark, rocks to lichen, the boreal forest is home to many useful things that can be used to spark a flame: no matches required. Through a mix of field-based and on-campus experiences, students will discover how to make fire by friction and how to identify and prepare the most useful natural tinders & kindlings found in the northern forest. Students will construct and learn to use a friction fire kit that includes a bow drill and hand drill, as well as gain experience preparing char cloth and using flint and steel. Additional instruction will include hands-on demonstrations of highly effective modern survival fire lighting techniques and tools. For the serious camper, the bushcraft enthusiast or the backyard bonfire specialist, this is a great in-depth opportunity to focus on the essential (and fun!) skill of fire starting.

You will need the following tools for this class:

-Quality fixed blade knife for carving bow drill kits. Mora 511 is suggested and will be available from the instructor for $15 -Appropriate outdoor clothing -Snacks and water bottle for being in the field away from campus. -Anything else you need to be comfortable in the woods for a ½ day (about 4 hours periods of time) -A small pack to carry your things in while in the field and also to bring back materials from the field

-Please bring anything you feel is appropriate for your enjoyment and comfort during this class. -The nature of these activities requires one to squat, to kneel down, bend and twist while attempting to generate friction fire. A small ground pad, or knee pads/ or back brace may be appropriate/desirable for some individuals. -Please bring any fire starting tricks/equipment to class that you may wish to share with the class.