Page 6 - winter 2020

6 Friends oF red rock canyon

The Fun Continues...

By Erin J. McDermott

or readers who have not heard of Outdoor two under our belts. This year’s
F Adventures, it is an immersive outdoor season kicked off on a very hot
experience for Southern Nevada youth in the (100 degrees) day in early Sep-
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area tember. The participants learned
(RRCNCA). The goal of the program is to have lo- all about desert tortoises from the
cal teens explore the rich landscapes and history of Tort Queen, Chelsea Conlin, and
RRCNCA through interpretive programs, service then hiked with Tom Lisby and
activities and ex- Shari Young on the Moenkopi
hilarating recreational Trail. Despite the heat, pizza and
opportunities. Friends a lot of laughs were served on the Ready to hike with Tom
partners with the Las back patio behind the administra- Lisby
Vegas Metro Police tive building.
Department - Police
Athletic League to October brought cooler temperatures and an-
impart strong conser- other Outdoor Adventure outing. REI opened their
vation ethics on local Boca Park location early for our group to buy hik-
Breakfast in the picnic area ing boots. Each participant was able to work with
youth, allowing them
to participate in community service activities such REI staff to find the right shoe – size, color and
Volunteers dedicated to the preservation of Red Rock Canyon
as trail building, trash cleanups and graffiti remov- style. After a yummy breakfast of bagels, REI staff
al. By combining outdoor experiences with service taught a Leave No Trace and camping program in
and learning opportunities, we want participants to their community room for our teens. They even
appreciate and properly utilize the outdoor trea- got to put up tents and discuss gear for outdoor
sures in their own backyard. recreation. Everyone had a great time!

REI is co-sponsoring year two of Outdoor Ad- The three remaining programs of the school
ventures through a $5,000 grant. Five outings are year will include a visit to Spring Mountain Ranch
planned for the school year and we already have State Park, graffiti removal and a possible visit
with some of our burro and horse friends.

If the shoe fits... Fit pole A into Slot B Happy (almost) Campers

the Rock - Volume 10 Issue 2