There are several large wilderness survival schools that have big reputations and have hundreds of people participate in workshops each year. We’re not one of them. Instead we serve a small number of people each year and really get to know them, since I see this as a vital step in learning how best to meet their educational needs. A result of this is that we often build great friendships with our students. It isn’t difficult, as friendships are easily made in the bush amongst people of similar interests.
Several years ago I got an email from a guy in New Brunswick named Jeff Butler who was interested in our guide training course. We spoke on the phone several times, then he came down for several weeks that included an Allagash canoe trip. Since then we’ve become great friends and worked together on many occasions. He’s been a frequent guest instructor here and he’s started his own bushcraft school called Northwoods Survival, located outside of Fredericton, New Brunswick. Based on his background as a lifetime outdoorsman, 20-year veteran of the Canadian military, and enthusiastic student of bush lore, he’s got a lot to offer as an instructor.
We’re planning a weeklong course at his place to take place this February. Jeff will be the lead instructor, and I’ll hang around, drink coffee, and make snide remarks at his expense. My goal is to reverse the roles on him from when he comes down to my place for courses. A good time is sure to be had by all, except Jeff. More information to be posted soon.
