We’re introducing a new format for the fall, 2009 Earth Skills Semester Program.  We’re breaking the course up into two blocks of four weeks each, with a week off in the middle.  And instead of working five days a week, we’ll be working six days a week.  With the practical exam at the end of the course, we’ll be covering the same amount of material since the number of “on” days remains the same.

During the first block, we’ll be using camp stoves, matches, and other modern gear.  But during the second block, all of these will be put away and we’ll be using primitive and traditional technologies exclusively.  I’ve always been a firm believer that in order to gain a deep insight into bushcraft you have to live the lifestyle for a period of time.  The second block will be that time.

It’s an exciting change and adds greatly to the realism of the semester program.